As Executive Director of the Green Digital Finance Alliance (GDFA), Gerrit leads the Swiss-based foundation, its key initiatives, and oversees GDFA’s thematic programs and project portfolio, especially focused on digital and data-driven financial and business model innovations for sustainable cities and the blue economy. Moreover, Gerrit is Co-Founder and President of the Green Fintech Network (GFN), a multi-stakeholder association building a thriving green digital finance ecosystem in Switzerland, in collaboration with leaders from financial industry and academia, as well as supported by the Swiss finance ministry, and he is a member of Verra's Scope 3 Standard Development Group. Earlier, Gerrit led a incubator & accelerator for the financial services industry, where he also served as a board member of the investment arm. Gerrit worked as a banker for 10 years, mostly with ABN AMRO Bank until he became an entrepreneur in 2010 and co-founded, led, and worked with - mostly FinTech - startups over 12 years, and led mobile payment projects at a telecommunications provider. Gerrit holds an MBA from IMD International in Lausanne and a BBA from Frankfurt School of Finance & Management.
Workshop Room 3 (Level 3)
Elevating ESG
This workshop is jointly hosted by Ethereum Climate Fund, Global Blockchain Business Council, and Consensys.
Climate change presents one of the most significant challenges of our time, with potential global damages reaching $23 trillion annually by 2050. Proactive climate action is not only cost-effective—with an estimated $4 trillion needed annually to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050—but also essential to prevent far greater economic and societal costs.
For effective climate action, the participation of the finance industry is vital. Financial institutions play a key role in driving the transition to a more sustainable future through strategic investments in decarbonisation and innovation. Climate Tech firms and infrastructure, as well as the transformation of existing firms and infrastructure, will both require partnership with FIs to create tangible impact. Governments and regulators, through supportive policies, can create the environment which fosters these advancements.
In this workshop, discover the innovative approaches organisations are adopting to create powerful opportunities for collaboration and information networking globally.
Workshop Room 3 (Level 3)
Elevating ESG
For lawmakers and standard setters, climate and nature are often presented as two separate topics. In this session, we will highlight how companies have been bridging both topics strategically and through technology to drive a holistic environmental sustainability strategy. Leading corporates, standard setters and green fintechs will share the stage to provide insights to participants over how to take action.
Roundtable Room 2 (Level 2)
Elevating ESG
Join us as we unfold the journey of the Green Fintech Network's inaugural year at the cutting edge of sustainable finance innovation. This round table will explore the milestones achieved and the collaborative efforts to bolster Switzerland's position in the global market. Join the discussion on the rich and unique Swiss ecosystem, share success stories, address the challenges faced, and chart a course for the future of green digital finance.
Session Objectives:
- To present a comprehensive overview of GFN's evolution, highlighting the strides made in developing a value proposition that resonates globally.
- To unveil the «Green Fintech Map» showcasing how Swiss startups address different steps of the sustainable finance value chain.
- To articulate the unique selling points (USPs) of the Swiss ecosystem and its role in driving forward the global sustainable finance agenda.
- To discuss the practical challenges and learning experiences in funding green fintech ventures.
- To affirm the strategic timing for investing in green fintech, supported by compelling market and policy developments.
- To highlight successful collaborations between green fintechs and financial institutions, serving as case studies for future endeavors.
- To compare and contrast the Swiss green fintech ecosystem with other international hubs, deriving lessons and best practices.
- To provide an outlook on GFN's goals and milestones for the coming year, setting the stage for ongoing engagement and growth.