A New Tool to Support Water Projects in the Region

The Great Lakes Impact Investment Platform was launched earlier this year as a new tool to support projects that impact water in the Great Lakes States, Ontario and Quebec.  The Platform showcases externally financed projects that seek to deliver both a positive environmental impact, and a financial return to investors.  It includes projects in agriculture, forestry smart water systems, and energy. 

During the webinar participants learned about the Platform and its benefits, including the experience of the Milwaukee Metropolitan Sewerage District’s (MMSD) green bond that is featured on the Platform. Future webinars will focus on various types of projects, innovative financing and other themes. 

Utilities and other organizations can take advantage of the Platform to:

• Highlight the environmental benefits of their projects
• Gain exposure to more—and more diversified—investors
• Track and collect data on project performance and
• Potentially lower the cost of capital in the long term. 

Presenters:

David Naftzger, Executive Director for the Great Lakes St. Lawrence Governors & Premiers, and a team member developing the Great Lakes Impact Investment Platform.

Karen Sands, Director of Planning, Research and Sustainability for the Milwaukee Metropolitan Sewerage District where she oversees integrated grey and green infrastructure planning for water reclamation and stormwater management.

Great Lakes St. Lawrence Governor’s and Premiers Presentation

Milwaukee Metropolitan Sewerage District Presentation