The Supplier Window
Scaling up production to save lives
The Supplier Window provides financing solutions to support local manufacturers in producing essential nutrition supplies when and where they are most needed. It tackles critical cash flow issues and capacity limitations, enabling the timely delivery of life-saving products while strengthening local economies.
Access to essential supplies like ready-to-use therapeutic food (RUTF), multiple micronutrient supplements (MMS) and Small-Quantity Lipid-Based Nutrient Supplements (SQ-LNS) remains limited in many countries. To help close this gap, the Supplier Window was launched in 2022 as an ambitious initiative to address supply chain bottlenecks and boost local production capacity.
It was established by the Gates Foundation, the UNICEF USA Impact Fund and other partners, with UNICEF leading implementation.
Financing instruments
The Window has worked through two innovative financing mechanisms – the RUTF Advance Payment Facility (2022-2024) and the United Nations Capital Development Fund (UNCDF) Supplier Financing Facility.
RUTF Advance Payment Facility
Covering upfront production costs to ensure RUTF is procured and delivered without delay
Provided US$143 million in advance payments to suppliers
Generated US$345 million in RUTF orders
Reached 7.9 million children with life-saving treatment
Supported 16 suppliers across 11 countries
UNCDF Supplier Financing Facility
Catalytic investment capital for local suppliers of RUTF and other essential nutrition supplies
Launched with US$5 million from the CNF
Focuses on supporting local RUTF production
Provided US$2.5 million to Ariel Foods Nigeria
Aims to boost efficiency by 40 per cent
Impact on supply chains
By supporting local manufacturers, the Supplier Window:
- Reduces dependence on imported supplies
- Shortens delivery times for essential products
- Creates local jobs and economic opportunities
- Builds resilience against global supply chain disruptions
- Reduces environmental impact of transportation
