In recent decades, Ecuador has undergone a rapid urbanization process, showing the second-highest per capita urban growth rate in the region. This growth is most evident in Ecuador’s intermediate cities, where their actions play a leading role in climate change adaptation and mitigation. However, there remains a gap in the development of urban projects with a climate focus, and even more so in access to green financing.

Through the second phase of the Sustainable Intermediate Cities (CIS II) project, extended from 2024 to December 2026, German Cooperation - GIZ reaffirms its commitment to supporting Ecuador in its efforts to implement climate-friendly actions and policies. This is within the framework of the Global Gateway initiatives and a Green Deal for Ecuador, co-financed by the European Union and the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ).

The project aims to:

• Achieve measurable progress in implementing the Ecuadorian Sustainable Habitat Agenda (AHSE 2036) sustainable urban development policy, including contributions to city-relevant NDC targets.
• Strengthen the capacities of municipal GADs and financial institutions in the country so that sustainable urban infrastructure projects have the appropriate conditions to access green financing.

Expected results:

1. At least 10 climate-friendly sustainable urban development projects will be able to apply for financing.
2. Institutional capacities, structures, and processes for sustainable urban development projects with a climate focus will be improved in at least 5 cities and 1 financial institution (BDE).
3. Climate measures with a gender focus will be implemented in cities within the framework of AHSE 2036.
4. Two financial products for sustainable urban development projects will be structured.