BIO – Belgian Investment Company for Developing Countries

BIO, the Belgian Investment Company for Developing Countries, is a development finance institution that focuses on promoting private sector growth in emerging and developing economies. Founded by the Belgian government, BIO operates with the mission of fostering entrepreneurship, economic sustainability, and inclusive development through strategic investments in businesses that contribute to job creation and economic stability.

BIO provides long-term financing to enterprises and financial institutions that are often underserved by traditional investors. These include SMEs, microfinance institutions, and renewable energy projects. Its investment tools include equity, quasi-equity, loans, and guarantees, tailored to the specific needs of each project. In addition, BIO emphasizes environmental, social, and governance (ESG) standards across its portfolio, actively promoting sustainable business practices.

Operating with a strong developmental mandate, BIO prioritizes investments that contribute to the UN Sustainable Development Goals. The company targets high-impact sectors such as financial services, renewable energy, agribusiness, and infrastructure, with a geographic focus on Africa, Latin America, and Asia. BIO’s strategic partnerships with other development finance institutions and private investors amplify its impact in catalyzing economic development.