The Cities Investment Facility (CIF) is an innovative initiative focused on bridging the investment gap in urban infrastructure projects in low- and middle-income markets. With the aim of unlocking private investment, CIF supports project promoters by providing marketing opportunities to reach global construction-finance providers and long-term investors. Additionally, CIF offers advice on project preparation processes, including ideation, feasibility, development, and financial closure.

Through pre-construction funding, CIF assists in securing construction/long-term financing from external lenders and investors. This strategic approach addresses the annual global infrastructure investment gap of US$3. 2 trillion, particularly in developing and emerging economies.

CIF's key components include the CI Portal, which allows cities to promote their projects to potential investors, the CI Advisory Platform, which offers technical assistance and SDG impact verification, and the CI Vehicles, which provide private-capital financing and bankability guidance. By fostering private capital and aligning projects with the UN Sustainable Development Goals, CIF propels sustainable development and addresses rapid urbanization challenges worldwide