The Economics of Sustainable Development: Policy and Business Strategies for Long-Term Growth

The Executive Course on the Economics of Sustainable Development is an intensive five-day executive-level program designed for senior professionals and policymakers. Participants will delve deep into the science, economics, and policy framework of sustainability and resilience, developing comprehensive strategies to address these challenges. The course places particular emphasis on economic analysis and policy instruments, preparing participants for upcoming international negotiations and beyond.

The Executive Course on the Economics of Sustainable Development is tailored to policy leaders in the public, private, and non-profit sector confronting the urgent and complex challenges posed by climate.

Developed through a unique collaboration between the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) and the Georgetown Americas Institute (GAI), this course provides the training and insights necessary to advance climate management and policy. By bringing together influential leaders, the course aims to foster dialogue and mutual understanding, encouraging the formulation of meaningful and lasting economic, social, and environmental outcomes.

The course covers a comprehensive range of topics crucial to effective sustainability and resilience policy. Participants will gain an understanding of the economic implications of climate and the existing international climate policy framework (UNFCC, COP and the Paris Climate Agreement). From this basis, participants will explore climate policy design and implementation, ending with a focused preparation for the upcoming international negotiations.

Upon completion of the course, participants will have a comprehensive understanding of the critical elements of climate strategy at the national and regional levels. They will be equipped with the skills and knowledge to lead and influence the development and implementation of effective climate policies, ensuring that their countries are well-prepared to meet the challenges of future negotiations and beyond.

Course Content

Globally recognized experts and academics have developed this course to encourage public sector leaders from multiple countries to share their experiences while gaining insights and specialized knowledge. The 2024 course will delve into both the technical policy aspects and the complex interplay between governments, businesses, and civil society. This holistic approach ensures that participants are well-equipped to navigate the multifaceted challenges of the institutional context and policy implementation.
Topics that will be covered include:
• Adapting Fiscal Frameworks
• Development Action Plans
• Economic Foundations
• Economic Impacts
• Economic Resilience
• Governance Integration
• Presentation of IDB Flagship Publication “Peril and Promise”
• Infrastructure Investment for Sustainable Development
• International Frameworks
• Leadership Communications
• Markets and Investments
• Policy Frameworks
• Preparing for Implementation
• Sustainable Development Policy Across the World
• Sustainable Finance
• Sustainable Finance and Multilaterals

Who Should Apply?

Eligibility and Application Requirements
This course is open to policy leaders in the public and private sector, as well as those in senior research and non-profit roles, who are committed to advancing climate governance and policy. Ideal candidates are those able to influence climate-related decision-making and implementation, with a focus on economic aspects. Participants should have in-depth experience in climate policy and institutions and hold a senior leadership position or advisory role. We strongly encourage women to apply. Prospective participants include:
• Ministers, chiefs of staff, heads of climate related government agencies, commissioners, and heads of departments involved in climate policy, as well as their deputies and advisors.
• Executives, directors, chiefs, and heads at companies focused on renewable energy, sustainability, and environmental management, both at headquarters and country office levels, as well as their deputies and advisors.
• Leaders from management consulting firms providing advice to governments on climate policy design, implementation, and public financial management.
• Chief executives, directors, and senior fellows at think tanks and nonpartisan bodies, as well as experienced journalists covering climate issues

How to Apply

Applications Open: April 14, 2025
Applications Close: May 13, 2025
Documentation: Applicants will be asked to submit the following documentation.

• A current resumé;
• A one-page personal statement addressing climate challenges in the applicant’s country of origin or residence, and the applicant’s expectations about how the course will benefit them in addressing those challenges;
• And a statement of financial need (if applicable).
Course details and additional funding:
• Dates: July 28 – August 1, 2025
• Language: English
• Fee: $4,300 per participant (includes tuition to cover five days of teaching by world-class academics and practitioners, six nights accommodation in a 4 star hotel, and most meals). Fee does not cover overseas transport, visas, ground transportation or other incidentals.
• Credit card payment only
• Scholarships will be offered on a competitive basis. Scholarships will be offered on a competitive basis and may be partial (tuition only) or full (tuition and accommodation).

About the Organizers

The Executive Course is a collaborative effort between the Inter-American Development Bank and the Georgetown Americas Institute. The course benefits from the extensive expertise of both organizations in climate policy, economic analysis, and international cooperation
Inter-American Development Bank (IDB). The IDB is committed to improving lives in Latin America and the Caribbean by providing
financial and technical support for development projects and initiatives. The IDB is dedicated to sustainable development and regional cooperation
Georgetown Americas Institute (GAI). Georgetown University’s Americas Institute brings together scholars, policymakers, and practitioners to address critical issues facing the Americas. With a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary research and education, the Institute provides a platform for innovative solutions to global challenges. Participants will also have the opportunity to experience Georgetown’s vibrant academic community, fostering connections and collaborations that extend beyond the duration of the course.