Climate Finance to the Frontlines: Getting Resources Where They’re Needed Most

​Event Description

Billions are committed to climate and nature finance, yet only a fraction reaches the communities most affected by climate change. Smallholder farmers, Indigenous groups, and frontline communities are often the first to experience climate impacts, and the last to access funding.

This discussion explores how to shift climate finance toward local ownership, accessibility, and real-world impact. What are the barriers preventing resources from reaching frontline actors, and how can they be removed? How can funding be delivered faster, with simpler requirements, while still ensuring accountability?

We will examine emerging approaches, from locally led financing models to bioregional strategies and community-centered investment structures. The session will also explore how to better align climate and nature finance with the priorities and knowledge of those actively managing and protecting ecosystems.

Bringing together funders, practitioners, and community leaders, this conversation will focus on how to redesign climate finance systems so they deliver where it matters most.

​Speakers

• ​Dan Peniston is Development Officer at Akashinga, working to advance community-based conservation in Southern Africa, with experience in climate policy, Locally-Led Adaptation, and Nature-based Solutions”.

• ​Emma Symonds is a Programme Manager at CBM Global Disability Inclusion, working to shift power and resources toward disability-led organizations in the Global South.

• ​Jonathas Azevedo is Executive Director of Rede Comuá, advancing human rights, community engagement, and Global South-led initiatives.

• ​Richard Matey is Executive Director of Green Africa Youth Organization, leading youth-driven climate solutions and advancing just transitions across Africa.
  
  Discussion Questions
  Why does so little climate finance reach frontline communities, and what needs to change?
  What models are most effective in delivering funding directly to local actors and smallholders?
  How can we balance speed, accessibility, and accountability in climate finance?
  What role can community ownership and bioregional approaches play in shaping more effective climate investment?