External Evaluation of the NDC Pipeline Accelerator Multi-Trust Fund (ACL)

AAE has been engaged to conduct the External Evaluation of the NDC Pipeline Accelerator Multi-Trust Fund (ACL) for the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB). This 90-day consultancy will provide an independent assessment of the Fund's performance, assessing its contributions to climate-aligned development across Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC).

About the ACL Fund
Established by the IDB in 2017, the ACL Fund supports LAC countries in achieving their climate commitments under the Paris Agreement and the UN 2030 Agenda. Backed by a total volume of US$32 million from international contributors, the Fund provides non-reimbursable resources to help nations plan and design sustainable investments. Its evolving portfolio focuses heavily on nature-based solutions, biodiversity conservation, the circular and blue economy, and strengthening climate change institutional capacity.

Evaluation Objectives
Building on the insights of a 2021 Real-time Evaluation, AAE's assessment will evaluate how the ACL Fund is designed, managed, and implemented in practice. The primary goals of this consultancy are to:

• Assess impact and effectiveness: Evaluate the Fund's contributions to climate resilience, mitigation, adaptation, gender equality, and social inclusion.
• Ensure accountability: Provide an evidence-based review of operations and results for the Fund's contributors.
• Drive continuous improvement: Generate practical lessons to strengthen the Fund’s future strategic direction, thematic focus, and resource allocation.

The evaluation will culminate in a comprehensive Final Evaluation Report outlining actionable recommendations for the Fund's future governance and management. To maximize the reach and visibility of these findings, AAE will also deliver a concise Communication Brief, accompanied by creative dissemination products such as high-impact data infographics, podcasts, or thematic case studies.