UN Technology Bank and Impact Licensing Initiative Formalise Partnership to Advance Technology Access in Least Developed Countries

Sevilla, Spain, 3 July 2025

During the Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development (FfD4), the United Nations Technology Bank for the Least Developed Countries (UNTB) and the Impact Licensing Initiative (ILI) formalised their collaboration to strengthen access to affordable, high-impact technologies in Least Developed Countries (LDCs).

The signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) took place on the margins of a high-level side event focused on leveraging low-cost, scalable solutions to drive transformation across priority sectors in LDCs. Through this new partnership, the UN Technology Bank and ILI will work together to promote inclusive licensing approaches, foster private sector engagement, and explore innovative financing mechanisms that can help translate Technology Needs Assessments into concrete action.

Speaking at the event, Deodat Maharaj, Managing Director of the UN Technology Bank, underlined the importance of partnerships that align with national priorities and create practical pathways to implementation. “LDCs have clear visions and priorities. What they need is support to access the right technologies, fit-for-purpose financing mechanisms, and practical models that accelerate impact,” Mr. Maharaj noted.

The partnership also reflects the broader momentum generated at FfD4 to mobilize resources and forge alliances that can advance the goals of the Doha Programme of Action and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.