Professional Certification Program

Certified Green Finance Expert Sustainability Lending & Structuring

A practical certification designed for finance, sustainability, and risk professionals to master sustainability lending instruments, ESG risk assessment, regulatory frameworks, and green finance program structuring.

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Sustainability Lending
Understand green loans, social bonds, and sustainability-linked instruments.
📊
ESG Risk & Compliance
Identify, assess, and manage ESG risks aligned with global standards.
🏗️
Program Structuring
Design and structure impactful sustainability lending programs.

What you will learn

Build & Structure
Sustainable Finance Programs

In Certified Green Finance Expert, you will gain practical expertise to design, assess, and structure sustainability lending instruments. This course equips finance, sustainability, and risk professionals to align ESG goals with compliant, high-impact lending programs.

  • ✔ Understand sustainability lending concepts and their role in the global financial ecosystem.
  • ✔ Evaluate and structure green loans, social bonds, and sustainability-linked instruments.
  • ✔ Identify, assess, and mitigate ESG and sustainability-related financial risks.
  • ✔ Apply global regulatory frameworks, standards, and reporting requirements with confidence.
  • ✔ Design sustainability lending programs aligned with ESG goals, metrics, and impact outcomes.
  • ✔ Measure, report, and communicate sustainability performance using industry best practices.
Professionals reviewing sustainable finance and ESG performance data

There are 13 modules in this course

Certified Green Finance Expert: Sustainability Lending Instruments and Structuring Programs (Advanced) focuses on real-world structuring depth—covering complex green/social instruments, advanced SLL/SLB design, transition finance, blended structures, sovereign instruments, taxonomy navigation, external review, portfolio strategy, innovation, deal origination, and leadership—ending with a capstone and expert assessment.

Advanced Green & Social Instrument Structuring
Module 1  •  7 topics
Module details

Master advanced structuring techniques for green/social instruments—complex allocations, multi-tranche facilities, portfolio approaches, and nuanced eligibility interpretation.

What's included
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7 topics
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7 topics
• Advanced coverage
  • Multi-tranche green/social loan structures
  • Hybrid instruments (green + social combined)
  • Complex use-of-proceeds allocation methodologies
  • Advanced eligible category interpretation (edge cases, emerging technologies)
  • Portfolio approach to green/social lending programs
  • Refinancing vs. new project financing considerations
  • Case studies: Complex corporate green loan facilities, development bank social portfolios
Sustainability-Linked Instruments - Advanced Design
Module 2  •  8 topics
Module details

Design sophisticated SLL/SLB structures with robust KPI/SPT logic, pricing mechanics, recalibration triggers, and deep alignment to corporate strategy and disclosures.

What's included
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8 topics
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8 topics
• Advanced coverage
  • Advanced KPI selection methodologies for complex organizations
  • Multi-KPI frameworks and weighting strategies
  • SPT calibration using sector pathways and science-based targets
  • Materiality assessment for conglomerates and diversified businesses
  • Ratchet mechanisms and multi-step pricing adjustments
  • Fallback provisions and recalibration triggers
  • Integration with corporate sustainability strategy and CDP/TCFD disclosures
  • Case studies: Multi-KPI SLL for conglomerates, SLB with complex step-up structures
Transition Finance - Structuring for Hard-to-Abate Sectors
Module 3  •  8 topics
Module details

Structure credible transition instruments for high-emitting sectors—grounded in recognized frameworks, decarbonization pathways, stakeholder engagement, and greenwashing risk controls.

What's included
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8 topics
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8 topics
• Advanced coverage
  • Transition finance principles and frameworks (ICMA, Climate Bonds Initiative)
  • Structuring transition instruments for oil & gas, steel, cement, aviation, shipping
  • Credible transition plan assessment and validation
  • KPI/SPT setting for decarbonization pathways
  • Amber/transition activity classification in taxonomies
  • Managing greenwashing risks in transition finance
  • Stakeholder engagement strategies for controversial sectors
  • Case studies: Transition bonds for utilities, oil majors' sustainability-linked facilities
Blended Finance & Catalytic Capital Structures
Module 4  •  8 topics
Module details

Learn how to mobilize private capital using concessional layers, guarantees, and DFI participation—building investable structures for SDG-aligned projects and impact funds.

What's included
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8 topics
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8 topics
• Advanced coverage
  • Blended finance definitions, objectives, and market landscape
  • Structuring public-private partnerships (PPPs) for sustainable projects
  • Concessional finance layers and risk-sharing mechanisms
  • First-loss tranches, guarantees, and credit enhancement structures
  • Development finance institutions (DFI) participation models
  • Mobilizing private capital for SDG-aligned projects
  • Impact fund structures (Bamboo Capital model, microfinance hybrids)
  • Case studies: IFC blended structures, Green Climate Fund projects
Sovereign & Supranational Sustainable Debt
Module 5  •  7 topics
Module details

Navigate sovereign and supranational sustainable debt—framework design, governance, regulatory alignment, and how ESG ratings can influence pricing.

What's included
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7 topics
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7 topics
• Advanced coverage
  • Sovereign green/social/sustainability bond frameworks
  • National eligibility criteria and governance structures
  • Sovereign sustainability-linked bonds (emerging instrument)
  • Supranational issuers (World Bank, ADB, EIB) and their role
  • Cross-border regulatory alignment challenges
  • Sovereign ESG ratings and their impact on pricing
  • Case studies: Singapore Green Bond Framework, ASEAN Sustainability Bond Standards, EU Green Bond Standard
Sustainable Trade Finance & Supply Chain Instruments
Module 6  •  7 topics
Module details

Apply sustainability linkages to trade and supply chain finance—from Scope 3 supplier engagement to green verification platforms and ECA facilities.

What's included
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7 topics
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7 topics
• Advanced coverage
  • Sustainability-linked supply chain finance programs
  • Green letters of credit and documentary collections
  • Commodity trade finance with ESG linkage
  • Scope 3 financing and supplier engagement strategies
  • Structured trade finance for renewable energy projects
  • Export credit agency (ECA) green facilities
  • Technology platforms for sustainable trade verification (plus case examples)
Advanced Taxonomy Application & Regulatory Navigation
Module 7  •  8 topics
Module details

Confidently apply multiple taxonomies and disclosure regimes—EU, Singapore, China—while meeting DNSH and substantial contribution thresholds across sectors.

What's included
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8 topics
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8 topics
• Advanced coverage
  • Deep-dive: EU Taxonomy Technical Screening Criteria
  • Singapore-Asia Taxonomy implementation challenges
  • Multi-taxonomy compliance strategies (EU + Singapore + China)
  • Do No Significant Harm (DNSH) assessments
  • Substantial Contribution thresholds across sectors
  • Navigating transition activities and enabling activities classification
  • Climate Bonds Standard sector-specific criteria
  • Regulatory disclosure requirements (SFDR, MAS Guidelines, TCFD, ISSB)
External Review & Assurance - Advanced Topics
Module 8  •  8 topics
Module details

Build audit-ready external review workflows—SPO scoping, assurance choices, evidence standards, remediation protocols, and provider management.

What's included
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8 topics
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8 topics
• Advanced coverage
  • Structuring Second Party Opinion (SPO) engagements
  • Managing conflicts of interest in internal vs. external reviews
  • Verification vs. certification vs. rating - when to use each
  • Post-issuance verification and annual reporting reviews
  • Data integrity requirements for KPI/SPT monitoring
  • Audit trail standards and evidence documentation
  • Handling SPT misses and remediation protocols
  • Selecting and managing external review providers
Portfolio Management & Sustainability Strategy
Module 9  •  8 topics
Module details

Translate instruments into a durable portfolio strategy—impact aggregation, allocation, internal pricing, risk controls, and stakeholder reporting aligned to net-zero pathways.

What's included
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8 topics
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8 topics
• Advanced coverage
  • Building a sustainable lending portfolio strategy
  • Portfolio-level impact measurement and aggregation
  • Balancing commercial objectives with sustainability mandates
  • Sector allocation strategies aligned with net-zero pathways
  • Managing concentration risks in sustainable portfolios
  • Internal pricing and capital allocation for ESG instruments
  • Stakeholder reporting at portfolio level (GRESB, PRI, CDP)
  • Case studies: Bank portfolio transformation strategies
Innovation & Emerging Instruments
Module 10  •  8 topics
Module details

Explore what’s next—nature, oceans, circularity, just transition, debt swaps, ESG derivatives, tokenization, and AI-enabled ESG data verification.

What's included
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8 topics
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8 topics
• Advanced coverage
  • Biodiversity-linked instruments (nature-based solutions)
  • Blue bonds and ocean finance
  • Circular economy-linked finance
  • Just transition instruments and social equity considerations
  • Debt-for-nature swaps and sovereign sustainability restructuring
  • ESG derivatives and emissions trading linkages
  • Tokenization and blockchain for sustainable finance
  • AI and technology in ESG data collection and verification
Client Advisory & Deal Origination
Module 11  •  6 topics
Module details

Learn how to win mandates—instrument selection, pitch materials, negotiation, monitoring cadence, and reputational risk management, with cross-functional collaboration.

What's included
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6 topics
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6 topics
• Advanced coverage
  • Advising corporates on instrument selection (bond vs. loan, green vs. SLL)
  • Structuring pitch books and framework proposals
  • Negotiating ESG-linked pricing margins and step-ups/step-downs
  • Managing borrower relationships through KPI/SPT monitoring periods
  • Handling greenwashing allegations and reputational risk
  • Cross-functional collaboration (legal, risk, sustainability, investor relations)
Strategic Leadership in Sustainable Finance
Module 12  •  7 topics
Module details

Build leadership capability—team design, policies and governance, thought leadership, innovation steering, and balancing profitability with impact.

What's included
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7 topics
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7 topics
• Advanced coverage
  • Building and managing sustainable finance teams
  • Developing organizational sustainable finance policies
  • Governance models for sustainable finance programs (GBSC model)
  • Industry engagement and thought leadership (speaking, publishing)
  • Driving innovation within financial institutions
  • Balancing profitability and impact
  • Future-proofing sustainable finance capabilities
Capstone Project & Expert Assessment
Module 13  •  2 items
Module details

Demonstrate end-to-end structuring competence through a practical challenge and a comprehensive final quiz.

What's included
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2 items
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2 items
• Final assessment
  • Real-world structuring challenge
  • Final quiz: 50 questions covering all modules
🎓
Earn a career certificate
Add this credential to your LinkedIn profile, resume, or CV. Share it on social media and in your performance review.

What professionals say about this Green Finance program

Ananya S.
Credit Manager, Commercial Banking

“This course made sustainability lending practical. The breakdown of green loans, SLL structures, and ESG risk checkpoints helped me improve how we assess eligibility and document outcomes. I used the measurement and reporting module immediately in my day-to-day work.”

Rohit M.
ESG & Sustainability Lead, NBFC

“What I liked most was the balance between standards and execution. The regulatory frameworks section gave me clarity on how to align internal policies, while the program structuring module helped us define ESG goals and metrics that are realistic and auditable.”

Meera P.
Risk Analyst, Sustainable Finance

“The risk management module was excellent. It connected sustainability risks with real credit and portfolio implications, not just theory. The case studies also helped me understand what strong sustainability-linked structures look like in practice.”

Kunal R.
Investment Analyst, Impact & Climate Finance

“Clear, structured, and highly relevant. The module on instruments helped me compare green loans vs. social bonds vs. sustainability-linked financing, and the reporting framework section improved how I review impact claims. A strong certification for anyone working in green finance.”

Frequently asked questions

What is “Certified Green Finance Expert” about?

This program focuses on sustainability lending instruments and how to structure credible, compliant lending programs aligned with ESG goals.

You’ll learn instruments (green loans, social bonds, sustainability-linked lending), risk management, regulatory frameworks, program structuring, and impact measurement & reporting.

Is this course relevant if I work in a bank/NBFC or corporate finance?

Yes. The content is designed for professionals involved in lending, credit, risk, ESG, sustainability, treasury, and impact/credit assessment.

It is also useful for corporate finance teams that interact with sustainability-linked financing and reporting requirements.

Do I need prior knowledge of ESG, climate finance, or sustainability reporting?

No. The course starts with core concepts and builds up to instruments, frameworks, and program structuring in a clear, practical way.

If you work in finance, lending, risk, or sustainability roles, you’ll be able to follow and apply the learning without a specialist background.

How is a green loan different from a sustainability-linked loan (SLL)?

A green loan is typically tied to eligible green use-of-proceeds projects (e.g., renewable energy, energy efficiency). Sustainability-linked loans are usually linked to the borrower’s ESG performance targets (KPIs), and pricing/terms may depend on progress.

This course helps you understand where each instrument fits and how they’re structured in real programs.

Will I learn how to evaluate whether a project truly qualifies as “green”?

You’ll learn practical approaches for assessing eligibility, aligning with standards and guidelines, and defining measurable metrics and reporting requirements.

The course also covers risk management and governance elements that help reduce greenwashing risk.

Will this course help me avoid greenwashing and improve audit readiness?

Yes. You’ll learn how standards, governance, risk controls, and reporting frameworks support credibility and transparency.

The focus is on building programs that can be validated through clear metrics, documentation, and consistent reporting.

How long does it take to complete the course?

The course is modular and designed to be completed quickly, but you can learn at your own pace. Most learners finish it within a few days to a couple of weeks depending on schedule.

You can revisit the modules anytime for refreshers when working on real programs.

Is the program self-paced?

Yes. All lessons are available online, so you can learn whenever it fits your work and personal commitments.

You can pause, revisit modules, and continue exactly where you left off.

Will I receive a certificate of completion?

Yes. After completing the course, you’ll receive a digital certificate you can add to your LinkedIn profile, resume, or CV.

Many learners also use it to support internal role transitions into ESG/sustainable finance workstreams.

Can my company enroll a team or request a customised program?

Yes. Organisations often enroll lending, risk, and ESG teams together to build a common understanding of instruments, compliance, and reporting expectations.

For group enrollments or custom programs, please contact us and we’ll share options.

Will this course help with real implementation, or is it only theory?

The course is designed to be practical. It covers instruments, frameworks, program structuring, risk management, and measurement/reporting so you can apply the learning to real lending programs.

It’s especially useful if you are building or improving a sustainability-linked lending program and want more clarity and structure.