Lena Giesbert

Dr Lena Giesbert is Senior Manager for Green Entrepreneurship and Green Finance. She specialises in advancing sustainable and inclusive business models, fostering sustainable value chains, and improving access to finance in low- and middle-income countries, as well as across emerging markets.

Much of Lena’s work centres on Africa, where she focuses on the sustainable growth of the private sector, investment conditions, and the development of finance mechanisms that are tailored to local and regional contexts and partners. She also plays a leading role in designing and delivering innovative advisory and training programmes to unlock green entrepreneurial potential and open up new markets for micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs). Supporting sustainable business ecosystems for MSMEs is another core aspect of her work—this includes promoting networks and business support organisations, and working closely with public sector partners.

“What drives me at adelphi is the opportunity to strengthen green and inclusive business models in some of the world’s most challenging markets. I’m continually inspired by the courage and ingenuity of entrepreneurs, especially in African countries. Through our projects, we work side by side with them to help realise their potential, tap into new markets and create lasting impact—ultimately contributing to self-determined and sustainable development for the future.”