QII Partnership Launches Third Phase to Advance Sustainable Infrastructure

The Quality Infrastructure Investment (QII) Partnership has launched its third phase supported by the Government of Japan for FY25-28. This phase prioritizes innovative approaches to infrastructure quality, extending beyond traditional project preparation and implementation, and will focus on global knowledge sharing and capacity building for clients.

This commitment comes at a critical moment as the global infrastructure sector faces mounting challenges, including climate change, economic stagnation, shrinking investment, and rising debt, all amid a growing demand for essential services. Developing countries are particularly affected, with infrastructure improvements now requiring about 4.5% of GDP annually to meet global needs for essential and climate-resilient services.

The QII Partnership addresses these global issues by embedding G20 Principles into World Bank operations to scale economic, social, and environmental benefits in sectors such as energy, transport, water, digital development, and urban governance. With targeted financial and technical assistance, QII supports long-term, resilient infrastructure solutions that align with G7 and G20 priorities and the World Bank Group’s Global Challenge Program.

Demand for QII support is growing rapidly. Since its inception, the QII Partnership has made significant contributions to World Bank operations, approving 292 grants totaling $76.1 million. These grants have facilitated over $64 billion in World Bank projects, showcasing the tremendous leverage of QII’s model, where every $1 of funding influences $938 in project financing.

In addition to its direct financial support, QII drives thought leadership in sustainable infrastructure development through research and analytical activities that expand global understanding of QII Principles. This positions the QII Partnership as a leader in advancing global knowledge and best practices in sustainable infrastructure. QII fosters partnerships through collaborative learning and knowledge dissemination.

Key highlights in FY24 include a technical deep dive on quality urban infrastructure with the Urban Global Department and Tokyo Development Learning Center, mobilize finance for climate action at Transforming Transportation, and participation in the Understanding Risk Global Forum with GFDRR.

QII is advancing global knowledge through flagship products such as the upcoming QII Reference Guide and Web Portal, which will serve as one-stop shop for resources, provide practical insights, and training curriculum in line with the World Bank Group Knowledge Academy.

As global challenges continue to evolve, the Partnership remains steadfast in its commitment to promoting sustainable infrastructure solutions that foster resilience, inclusivity, and lasting growth. Through its financing, knowledge sharing, and partnerships, QII is playing a pivotal role in helping countries meet their infrastructure needs while advancing environmental and social sustainability.