Innovative Financing of Education Technology as Part of Maximizing Financing for Development

Digital technologies are increasingly important for delivering inclusive, resilient, and high-quality education, yet financing their effective deployment remains a key constraint in many low- and middleincome countries). This paper examines the scale of investment needed to achieve universal digital learning against the backdrop of constrained education budgets. It highlights common challenges ministries face, including limited fiscal space, underutilization of available funds, and inefficiencies in procurement practices. Drawing on global case studies and the World Bank’s EdTech principles, the paper outlines a practical framework for innovative financing that combines two strategi c approaches: (1) stretching existing budgets through improved planning, cost-benefit analysis, and procurement reform; and (2) mobilizing additional funding from underleveraged sources such as Universal Service Access Funds, philanthropic capital, and blended finance. The report offers actionable recommendationsto help ministries of education make smarter, result-oriented EdTech investments and build partnerships that enhance long-term impact and sustainability.