Sylvia Wisniwski, CEO of Finance in Motion, emphasized the transformative potential of sustainable farming in Africa during a recent address, underscoring the firm’s commitment to supporting producers in emerging markets.
“At Finance in Motion, we see producers eager to shift to sustainable practices, but they often face significant financial barriers,” Wisniwski said. “Our mission is to ensure they don’t bear the cost, risk, and uncertainty of this transition alone.”
Wisniwski highlighted the critical role of sustainability certifications, describing them as “shorthand for operational resilience, transparency, and commitment—a signal that a business model is built to last.”
Through its eco.business funds, Finance in Motion partners with local financial institutions in Africa and Latin America to integrate these certifications into credit assessments, enabling targeted funding for certified producers. In Africa, the fund has disbursed over $200 million in sub-loans, empowering farmers to adopt sustainable practices and reduce their environmental footprint.
The approach goes beyond financing certified producers. Wisniwski noted that Finance in Motion also supports farmers striving to meet certification standards by providing loans for specific improvements. “We’re not just offering capital,” she explained.
“We’re helping producers build resilient, sustainable systems that align with global standards.” This strategy has proven effective in Latin America, where the fund has supported sustainable management of over 1.1 million hectares of farmland, strengthening food production systems and agricultural resilience.
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In Africa, where sustainable agriculture is gaining momentum, Wisniwski sees immense potential. “The appetite for change is there,” she said. “By bridging the financial gap, we’re enabling producers to embrace practices that benefit both their businesses and the environment.” Finance in Motion’s efforts are poised to drive long-term growth in Africa’s agricultural sector, fostering economic and environmental sustainability through innovative financing.
Through blended finance, advisory services, and capacity building, Wisniwski’s vision ensures that producers are not left to face global expectations alone. By fostering ecosystem support from investors, retailers, and governments, Finance in Motion is helping farmers gain better access to finance, mitigate risks, and align with sustainability goals.
