
Slide 1
Access to finance is consistently reported to be the biggest challenge faced by last mile distributors, and working alongside both members and funders to tackle this challenge is a top priority for the GDC

Despite last mile distributors’ (LMDs) relative success in fundraising – with 62% of GDC members having raised grant, debt and/or equity between 2019 and 2022 – access to finance remains the top challenge; particularly for local companies. To unlock the full potential of the LMD sector all types of funding are needed. While funders are increasingly exploring ways to invest further downstream and support smaller companies, as well as local companies, the reality remains that capital is still not flowing into the space at the rate required – and the capital that is flowing, is not sufficiently inclusive or tailored to the LMD sector’s needs.
What? A set of tools to help early-stage last mile distributors consider what they need funding for, which types of funding would meet their needs, which funders to approach, how to develop a great pitch, and more.
Why? To equip LMDs with guidance and information to more effectively engage with funders, in order to scale their businesses and impact.
What? A video series showcasing the growth and impact stories of three GDC members and their partners
Why? To spotlight the important role of intermediary investors in channelling investment into the LMD sector; unlocking much-needed finance for companies while enabling their own investors to achieve financial and impact goals.
These knowledge outputs were funded with UK aid from the UK government via the Transforming Energy Access programme; and GET.invest, a European programme which aims to mobilise investment in decentralised renewable energy, supported by the European Union, Germany, Sweden, the Netherlands and Austria.
GDC members are invited to register to be able to leave suggestions and reviews (your account will provide access to member-only resources in the future)