The ground-breaking six-month leadership development programme for banking professionals advancing the climate agenda within their institutions is back.
In 2021 alone, the world’s 60 largest banks provided more finance to fossil fuels than in 2016 – the year the Paris Climate Agreement was signed. Yet there are passionate and committed individuals working inside banks who envision a banking sector that finances a just and regenerative economy – one that addresses the intersecting ecological and social breakdowns interconnected with the climate crisis. These banking professionals recognise that their institutions and sector require transformation to realise this vision and are working tirelessly to enable this from the inside out. We call them ‘climate intrapreneurs’.
The first ever cohort of the Climate Safe Lending Fellowship was truly pioneering.
23 Fellows from 20 banks based across North America, Europe, Africa, Asia and the Middle East developed the capability to lead change from within their institutions. Holding roles from Vice President to Executive Officer, Fellows also uncovered new insights on what enables banks to transition more rapidly toward financing a just and regenerative future.
The CSL Fellowship was transformative and unlike any professional development experience that I have participated in. When asked to describe the experience, I jokingly called it “group therapy for sustainability professionals”. But in reality, the workshops are designed for introspection, evaluation and the development of new connections, tools and insights about the critical work that we are all doing. I am taking with me a feeling of empowerment, clarity and a true feeling of fellowship with my cohort.
CSL Fellow 21/22
The Finance Innovation Lab and Climate Safe Lending Network are delighted to announce that applications are now being accepted for the second cohort of the Fellowship.
The CSL Fellowship is designed to develop the internal talent in banking to embed and advance climate action within their institutions. Fellows will access sector insights and emerging new practice in climate finance. They will leave the programme with new tools, skills and multi-stakeholder networks gained in a pre-competitive, collaborative environment.
The programme is for committed climate advocates who are currently employed by a bank, and are working to accelerate climate action in their institutions. It takes place between December 2022 – May 2023, with an average time commitment of up to one day per month. The programme is fully virtual.
To find out more about the programme and apply, click here.
If you would like to hear directly from the Fellowship programme team, join our first Taster Session on Monday 27 July – sign up here.