In 2015, ICLEI launched the Transformative Actions Program (TAP) with a simple but bold purpose: To help subnational governments turn their sustainable development ideas into investment-ready projects. Ten years later, that vision has consolidated into a global platform that has received over 500 applications, connected dozens of local initiatives to technical assistance and financiers, and helped mobilize €1.9 billion-worth in transformative ideas
As TAP celebrates its 10th anniversary in 2025, its impact continues to grow, alongside the need for sustainable development in cities and regions worldwide.
A decade of local solutions
Cities and regions are responsible for about 70% of global CO₂ emissions and nearly two-thirds of energy use. At the same time, they are where some of the most innovative solutions are being developed, often under resource constraints, complex governance structures, and increasing climate risks.
“We had the opportunity to showcase the result of a first stage of the construction of the first photovoltaic plant for the City of Avellaneda before public, private, and international financial institutions,” said Mayor Gonzalo Braidot of Avellaneda, Argentina, who presented the city’s project in front of technical experts and financiers at a TAP marketplace. “[This represented] a showcase for us to share how we are working and to make a ‘match’ with these institutions to secure the necessary funding to make this dream a reality.”
From designing nature-based solutions in Belém, Brazil, to supporting energy efficiency in Muhanga, Rwanda, TAP projects show that local action can be technically sound, climate-smart, and financially viable with the right support.
Led by ICLEI – Local Governments for Sustainability and supported by a consortium of specialized partners, TAP acts as a bridge between local ambition and global finance. Through annual calls, it offers subnational governments the opportunity to submit their sustainable development ideas. Selected projects receive personalized feedback, expert guidance, and the opportunity to connect with project preparation facilities and financial institutions. TAP also offers resources like training, tools, and peer-exchange opportunities to strengthen project design and scale-up impact.
Importantly, there are no geographical nor size restrictions, and projects can be submitted at any stage of development, from early concepts to mature proposals seeking financing.
A portfolio with proven potential
As of April 2025, TAP’s growing project portfolio includes 95 projects from 38 countries, representing a total investment potential of €1.6 billion with the average project size being €17 million.
TAP projects aim to support sustainable development, and span sectors including clean energy, climate adaptation, circular economy, sustainable transport, water security, and nature-based solutions, many with a focus on underserved communities. Projects like the Dumas Sea Face revitalization in Dumas, India, a dry biodigester for organic waste in Rosario, Argentina, and disaster risk management coordination in Kisumu, Kenya, show the diverse, high-impact potential of TAP’s portfolio.
TAP’s success is also measured in the strength of its partnerships. With 17 specialized partners and over 20 knowledge products developed, the program continues to build a strong community of practice focused on innovative finance, just transition, and local empowerment.
Natalia Salazar, Head of Innovative Finance at ICLEI, explains how TAP delivers impact on both sides of the sustainable finance equation: “For subnational governments, TAP offers a complete capacity-building journey that helps sharpen strategy, clarify impact, and elevate visibility on the global stage, all aimed at accessing financing. For investors, TAP offers de-risked, high-quality investment opportunities in emerging markets. TAP’s due diligence and capacity-building mechanisms ensure that each project is aligned with the SDGs and national climate priorities, and that it includes a strong business case, governance support, and scalability potential.”
As Fernando Bertoni, Deputy Director for Climate Action at the City of Rosario in Argentina, shared at a TAP marketplace: “We are very happy to participate in the TAP experience because it opens the door for us to obtain funding and at the same time technically improve how […] to generate innovation in our city, in terms of technology and sustainability, to improve environmental issues throughout the municipality.”
Submit. Support. Transform.
With a decade of impact behind and a growing network of partners ahead, TAP remains a unique platform where ideas become action, and where local innovation meets global opportunity.
The 2025 TAP Call is open between 21 May and 30 September. Whether you’re a subnational government with a transformative idea or an investor looking to finance real change, TAP is your gateway. Get involved now at: https://iclei.org/tap
Blogs
