External Communications Mechanism

A simple channel to request information or raise concerns about Catalyst Fund’s environmental and social practices or those of our portfolio companies.

Purpose

Catalyst Fund provides an External Communications Mechanism (ECM) for anyone to ask questions, request information, or raise concerns about our environmental and social practices or those of our portfolio companies. This mechanism aligns with IFC Performance Standard 1 and international good practice for responsible investment.

Who can use this mechanism?

Anyone affected by our work — community members, customers, civil society, media, regulators, or any external stakeholder.

What You Can Raise

Environmental impacts

Community or worker health & safety

Customer protection

Human rights concerns

Corruption or business integrity issues

Governance and compliance concerns

How to Contact Us

Online form

Open ECM Form

Send Email

What Happens Next

Acknowledgment

We confirm receipt within 5 business days.

Review

We assess and classify the issue within 10 business days.

Response

We provide a substantive response or next steps within 15 business days. receipt within 5 business days.

Portfolio Company Issues

If it relates to a portfolio company, we coordinate with them and may request corrective actions or independent review.

Follow-Up

We track all issues in our ECM log until closure.

Confidentiality & Protection

You may submit anonymously.
Personal information remains confidential.
Sensitive issues (e.g., GBV, corruption, human rights) receive enhanced protection.
No retaliation will occur for raising concerns in good faith.

Issues Relating to Portfolio Companies

All portfolio companies are required to maintain their own grievance channels. If a concern is not resolved at the company level, it may be escalated to Catalyst Fund through the ECM.

Annual Disclosure

We summarize material issues and our responses in our annual ESG report, without disclosing personal information.