Investment principles of the Regional Infrastructure Fund

The Regional Infrastructure Fund (RIF) provides capital funding to create Crown and regional assets. 

The RIF differs to previous regional development funds by having a primary focus on capital investments using loans and equity instruments to support project implementation and success. Co-funding is expected in most cases.

The RIF supports projects unable to secure viable finance elsewhere. Investment structures will aim to accelerate projects that would not otherwise happen.

The RIF prioritises loans and equity, because:

  • debt and equity provide capital assets on the Crown bank sheet and a means for return of capital, which can then be re-used for future investments; and
  • debt and equity ensure strong commercial incentives on RIF co-investors and enable use of well-established contractual arrangements and transparency mechanisms.

The RIF generally prioritises loans ahead of equity, because:

  • the return of capital is more specifically contracted for loans than equity;
  • loans can limit the risks to which the Crown is exposed; and
  • it generally avoids the complexities of ownership (exit strategy, valuation, voting, directorship).

In some cases, investment may be structured as a mix of funding options. It is important to remember, if applicants are successful in receiving a funding offer from the RIF, they may not receive their favoured funding arrangement.

A sample of a standard form for a RIF loan agreement, with drafting notes included for guidance, has been created, which may be useful for reference.  Any questions in relation to the standard form for a loan agreement can be directed to Kānoa – RD advisors.

Regional Infrastructure Fund: Loan agreement [PDF, 772 KB]

The Regional Development Ministerial Group will consider advice from officials recommending the most appropriate investment arrangement for each project proposal, determined as part of a detailed financial and management assessment.

Position papers

Position papers, outlining what the government is aiming to achieve in key sectors and focus areas, have been created, which may also be useful for reference.

The position papers align with existing government strategies and policies.

The position papers can be used by applicants and other stakeholders in identifying suitable projects for the RIF, and to frame applications.

The position papers also set out the preferred form of investment for the RIF.

The position papers cover the following sectors/focus areas:

The position papers are not exhaustive, will be added to over time, and sectors and projects not covered by the position papers may still be covered by the RIF.

More information about eligibility:

Eligibility for the Regional Infrastructure Fund