Partners: The Asia Foundation
Client: Koshi Province
Sector: ESG, Public-Private Partnerships
Project Start: 2023

The South Asia Grants Program (SAGP) is a transformative initiative targeting sustainable and inclusive growth in Nepal’s Koshi Province via the integration of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles into Public-Private Partnership (PPP) projects. In the past year, VRock has helped in the institutionalization of the Province Investment Authority (PIA), Koshi province and is creating ESG-sensitive tools and processes like the ESG toolkit and Project Selection Criteria for the development of PPP projects.

The project aids in identifying and creating bankable project descriptions while supporting the province through every stage of the PPP process. Capacity building forms a key part of the initiative, with the provision of ESG training to PPP stakeholders and business literacy skills training for women entrepreneurs and SME owners.

To cement sustainable investment in PPP projects, the SAGP fosters lasting institutional linkages between public entities and Banks and Financial Institutions, ensuring effective information sharing and collaboration. The program also values localization and provides customized support to each participating body for optimal positive economic impact.