This study makes the first attempt to evaluate trust as a determinant of green finance as well as the collective effect of trust and green finance on the pillars of sustainable development. It further explores two parallel mediators (information sharing and technological penetration) and the moderation role of good governance in this relationship. The empirical evidence is based on Hayes's process analysis and the following findings were established: (1) Trust has a positive impact on green finance both directly and indirectly through technological penetration; (2) Good governance has a strengthening influence on the link between trust and green finance, particularly when trust levels are low; and (3) Trust and green finance collectively foster sustainable development. Thus, our study emphasizes the need to source funds in a manner that is transparent and digitally accessible. Overall, the result provides empirical support for the need for trustworthy collaborations and funding to drive sustainable development. An important policy implication is to reset the minimum information coverage and technological penetration levels to at least 6.86% and 7.54%, respectively.