Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast Investing in Impact | Impact Investing
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| Cole Shephard, Partner at Legacy Group - Alternative Asset Manager Focused on High-Impact Investment Opportunities in Latin America | 15 Oct 2024 | 00:49:22 | |
This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only, you should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.
In episode 80 the Investing in Impact podcast, I speak with Cole Shephard, founder of Legacy Group, on his mission to become a leading coffee producer in Colombia while maintaining a focus on sustainability and social impact.
Cole is a Partner at Legacy Group, an alternative asset manager focused on high-impact investment opportunities in the U.S. and Latin America. Founded in 2015, Legacy Group aims to bridge the gap between financial capital and ventures with significant social and environmental impact across various sectors, including real estate, agriculture, and technology. Before founding Legacy Group, Cole spent eight years with Pricewaterhouse Coopers, working across the U.S., Bermuda, Hong Kong, and Beijing. His expertise spans accounting, advisory, and consulting, with a focus on mergers and acquisitions in industries like financial services, real estate, and healthcare. In this episode, Cole shares valuable insights on building business models that integrate environmental and social initiatives, emphasizes the importance of adaptability for aspiring entrepreneurs, and outlines the ambitious future goals for the Green Coffee Company. Key Takeaways from the Interview:
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| Venture Capital For Equitable Supply Chains - Ed Marcum // Managing Partner of the Working Capital Fund | 02 Oct 2024 | 00:37:40 | |
This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only, you should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.
In episode 79 the Investing in Impact podcast, I speak with Ed Marcum, the Managing Partner of the Working Capital Fund, on the innovations creating a more transparent and responsible global supply chain. With over 20 years of experience in human rights and venture capital investing, Ed has worked across the for-profit, nonprofit, and public policy sectors. Previously, he spent more than a decade at Humanity United, guiding initiatives to address forced labor in corporate supply chains. He holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of California, Berkeley, and an MBA/MA from The Wharton School and the Lauder Institute at the University of Pennsylvania. About the Working Capital Fund The Working Capital Fund is on a mission to improve the lives of marginalized workers, catalyzing economic justice by investing in innovative solutions that address the deep-seated challenges of global supply chains. Global supply chains are enormous, involving millions of workers across thousands of businesses. On average, a Fortune 500 company works with over 10,000 suppliers, producing the goods that consumers rely on daily. However, these supply chains are often associated with some of the most pressing challenges humanity faces, including forced labor, unfair wages, and environmental degradation. Annually, over $354 billion worth of goods are at risk of being tainted by forced labor, with more than 17 million workers trapped in modern slavery conditions. These challenges are often hidden deep within supply chains, making them difficult to detect and resolve. Moreover, supply chains are a primary contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, exacerbating the climate crisis. How the Working Capital Fund Works to Create Impact The Working Capital Fund focuses on investing in technologies and solutions that address the injustices inherent in global supply chains. Through its strategic investments, it aims to create a positive impact on workers and the environment. Key areas of focus include: 1. AI-Enabled Transparency Tools One of the biggest challenges in addressing supply chain issues is the lack of transparency. Corporations often do not have visibility into the practices of their suppliers, making it difficult to identify labor violations or environmental concerns. By investing in AI-enabled transparency tools, the Working Capital Fund is empowering companies to map their entire supply chains and assess risks in real time. These tools offer a clear view of potential human rights abuses or environmental risks, helping businesses make more informed decisions about their suppliers. 2. Worker-Voice Solutions Empowering workers is a critical part of creating a fair and just supply chain. The Working Capital Fund invests in worker-voice solutions that give laborers the tools they need to hold their employers accountable. These solutions allow workers to anonymously report unsafe working conditions, wage theft, or other violations, providing valuable feedback to companies and regulators. With this data, stakeholders can take action to improve labor conditions and ensure that workers’ rights are respected. 3. Financial Technology for Fair Pay Ensuring fair wages for workers is another priority for the Working Capital Fund. By investing in financial technologies, the Fund is helping to create systems that ensure workers are paid promptly and fairly. These technologies also help gather sustainability data on upstream suppliers, providing insights into whether they are adhering to ethical labor practices. With this information, companies can work towards ensuring that their entire supply chain is both economically and socially responsible. ---------------------------------------- Thrive in the Impact Economy. Join 20k+. Subscribe to our weekly newsletter for the latest news, exclusive interviews, and curated products that drive the Impact Economy. Our mission is to highlight and celebrate the founders, creators, investors, and conscious brands shaping the future of conscious business and philanthropy.
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| Brett Hagler // CEO and Co-founder of New Story Homes - Solving Global Housing: The Balance of Philanthropy and Market-Based Solutions at New Story Homes | 10 Jun 2024 | 00:30:32 | |
This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only, you should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.
In episode, I speak with Brett Hagler, CEO and Co-founder, of New Story Homes, on using philanthropy and market-based solutions to solve the global housing crisis. The global housing crisis is a staggering issue, affecting 1.6 billion people who live without adequate housing. This crisis stifles the potential of millions of families, particularly women and children, across the globe.New Story Homes, a nonprofit organization, has set out to tackle this problem through a unique blend of philanthropy and market-based solutions. By integrating innovative technology with community-focused strategies, New Story Homes is revolutionizing the path to homeownership for vulnerable families. Takeaways
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By developing and selling land equipped with essential municipal utilities—water, sewage, electricity, and roads—at affordable monthly rates, New Story Homes ensures that these properties are not only accessible but also sustainable and integrated into the local urban context. Innovative Housing Solutions
This method significantly reduces construction time and expenses compared to traditional building techniques, making it possible to provide immediate relief to families in need. Beyond construction, New Story Homes focuses on the entire community-building process, developing housing products that meet the unique demands of local regions. Families can use their land as collateral to secure first-time home financing, allowing them to either purchase one of New Story's housing prototypes or self-build the home that best suits their needs. The Role of Philanthropy and Impact Investments New Story Homes recognizes that addressing the housing crisis requires a multifaceted approach. Philanthropy plays a crucial role in funding the initial stages of projects, allowing the organization to acquire land and develop infrastructure. However, to achieve scalable impact, New Story Homes pairs philanthropic funds with impact investments. This blend enables the organization to extend its reach further down the market, serving families who are often excluded from traditional housing solutions. By focusing on sustainable, market-based solutions, New Story Homes ensures that its initiatives not only provide immediate relief but also foster long-term economic growth and stability in the communities it serves. Success and Future Innovations The success of New Story Homes can be seen in the thousands of families who now live in safe, affordable homes in countries like Haiti, El Salvador, Mexico, and Bolivia. Each project is a testament to the power of innovation and community collaboration in solving one of the world's most pressing social issues. Looking ahead, New Story Homes continues to push the boundaries of what's possible in affordable housing, exploring new technologies and strategies to further reduce costs and increase the speed of home construction. ---------------------------------------- Thrive in the Impact Economy. Join 20k+. Subscribe to our weekly newsletter for the latest news, exclusive interviews, and curated products that drive the Impact Economy. Our mission is to highlight and celebrate the founders, creators, investors, and conscious brands shaping the future of conscious business and philanthropy.
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| Joshua Haynes // Managing Partner at Masawa Fund | 20 Jul 2020 | 00:39:31 | |
This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only, you should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.
If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to subscribe, review, and share this podcast! In episode 5 of the Investing in Impact podcast, I speak with Joshua Haynes, Managing Partner at Masawa Fund on working in 35 countries, speaking 7 languages, and using natural medicine, technology, and workplace wellness to help billions of people live impactful lives in the global economy. Joshua's story and path is incredibly powerful. He overcame depression, anxiety, and an eating disorder. Tough childhood raised on welfare by a single mother = grit + perseverance. He displays over 20 years leading curation at the nexus of innovation, technology, and social impact. He served as a Peace Corps Volunteer, data analyst, software developer, consultant, digital product + service designer. Joshua also served as a Diplomat in the Obama Administration (USAID), managed $190M in impact grant funding for the US & Swedish Govs, pioneered new impact partnership types and ways of working. Degrees from Boston University (Finance); The Fletcher School, Tufts University (MBA). Masawa is the mental wellness impact fund. Through a laser focus on financial viability, social impact maximization, and founder resilience + organizational health, we nurture capital to nurture minds. Masawa invests in organizations with products proven to directly or indirectly result in improved mental wellness:
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| Alexander Holt // Founding Partner at Limitless Ventures | 14 Jul 2020 | 00:34:02 | |
This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only, you should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.
If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to subscribe, review, and share this podcast! In episode 4 of the Investing in Impact podcast, I speak with Alexander Holt, Founding Partner at Limitless Ventures, on his journey through addiction and how private and philanthropic capital can be a catalyst in prevention and recovery for millions dealing with mental health issues. Limitless Venture’s Founder Alexander Holt started the “Recovery Fund” in 2018 with the goal of creating 500,000 sober lives in the next 10 years through LV’s investments. Limitless Ventures is an independent growth capital sponsor in the lower middle market combining private and philanthropic capital to scale multi-disciplinary solutions for those impacted by mental health challenges and the addiction epidemic. Listen to more Causeartist podcasts here. We are powered by: ---------------------------------------- Thrive in the Impact Economy. Join 20k+. Subscribe to our weekly newsletter for the latest news, exclusive interviews, and curated products that drive the Impact Economy. Our mission is to highlight and celebrate the founders, creators, investors, and conscious brands shaping the future of conscious business and philanthropy.
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| Daniel Epstein | Founder of Unreasonable | 11 Jun 2020 | 00:44:53 | |
This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only, you should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.
If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to subscribe, review, and share this podcast! In episode 3 of the Investing in Impact podcast, I speak with Daniel Epstein, founder of Unreasonable on his long journey of building his impact portfolio of companies and supporting over 200 entrepreneurs who have raised more than $4B in financing, generated over $3B in revenue, and are impacting the lives of more than 400M individuals across 180+ countries. Coming Soon: ImpactInvestor - Discover Impact Investors from around the world. Subscribe here that entrepreneurship is the answer to nearly all the issues we face today. By the time he received his undergraduate degree in philosophy, he’d already started three companies. In addition to being on FORTUNE's "the World's 50 Greatest Leaders" list alongside the likes of Bill Gates & Tim Cook, Daniel was awarded Inc. Magazine's “30 under 30 entrepreneur”, and Forbes identified him as one of the “top 30 most impactful entrepreneurs.” He also received the prestigious “Entrepreneur of the World” award along with Richard Branson & the President of Liberia at the Global Entrepreneurship Forum. Daniel’s unfettered belief in entrepreneurs led to him founding and being the CEO of Unreasonable. Unreasonable is dedicated to supporting growth-equity entrepreneurs positioned to bend history in the right direction. Part investment firm, part media house, and most importantly a global community, Unreasonable partners with multinational institutions and revered brands to align them with impactful growth-stage entrepreneurs. Today Unreasonable actively supports over 200 entrepreneurs who have raised more than $4B in financing, generated over $3B in revenue, and are impacting the lives of more than 400M individuals across 180+ countries. Daniel speaks frequently on topics ranging from how multinationals and governments can better work with disruptive technologies, to working with public companies on how to create a worldclass and entrepreneurial culture across their employees, to the future of capitalism and our ability to profitably solve the most pressing challenges of this century. Daniel has given keynotes across more than 30 countries, has spoken at the White House, the UN General Assembly, in front of audiences larger than ten thousand, as part of annual corporate events and in closed door sessions with Fortune 50 executives and their boards of directors. He personally advises CEO's of multinationals on how to become more entrepreneurial and works with multi-billion dollar family offices on creating a new type of financial legacy with their investments — producing above market rate returns while combatting societal & environmental challenges. We are powered by: ---------------------------------------- Thrive in the Impact Economy. Join 20k+. Subscribe to our weekly newsletter for the latest news, exclusive interviews, and curated products that drive the Impact Economy. Our mission is to highlight and celebrate the founders, creators, investors, and conscious brands shaping the future of conscious business and philanthropy.
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| Jennifer Baldwin Pryce | CEO of Calvert Impact Capital | 08 Jun 2020 | 00:47:48 | |
This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only, you should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.
If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to subscribe, review, and share this podcast! In episode 2 of the Investing in Impact podcast, I speak with Jennifer Baldwin Pryce, the President and CEO of Calvert Impact Capital on investing $2 billion into mission-driven organizations across the U.S. and around the world. Coming Soon: ImpactInvestor - Discover Impact Investors from around the world. Subscribe here Over the course of their 25 year history, Calvert Impact Capital have raised more than $2 billion from over 18,000 investors to more than 520 mission-driven organizations across the U.S. and around the world.
Calvert's portfolio partners reach all 50 states plus DC and Puerto Rico, as well more than 100 countries and organize their portfolio across nine sectors: affordable housing, community development, education, environmental sustainability, health, microfinance, renewable energy, small business and sustainable agriculture. In 2018, Calvert Impact Capital disbursed $100.4 million in new and renewed loans to 100 borrowers. Collectively, those 100 borrowers made nearly $4.7 billion in loans to their clients. In 2018, the portfolio partners collectively served over 72 million clients (60% women) and created or retained more than 500,000 jobs. We are powered by: ---------------------------------------- Thrive in the Impact Economy. Join 20k+. Subscribe to our weekly newsletter for the latest news, exclusive interviews, and curated products that drive the Impact Economy. Our mission is to highlight and celebrate the founders, creators, investors, and conscious brands shaping the future of conscious business and philanthropy.
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| Peter Bruce-Clark | Partner at Social Impact Capital | 28 May 2020 | 00:37:40 | |
This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only, you should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.
If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to subscribe, review, and share this podcast! In episode 1 of the Investing in Impact podcast, I speak with Peter Bruce-Clark, Partner at Social Impact Capital on funding ambitious entrepreneurs building world changing companies. Peter is Partner at Social Impact Capital. Peter was Head of Business Development at RCI, a investment technology and alternative lending platform backed by 8VC and Soros Fund Management. Prior to that, Peter created both an early-stage AI venture capital firm focused on investing in companies using machine learning in high-impact areas of application, as well as a specialist strategy and management consultancy for institutional investors, Kalytix Partners (acquired), founded by Dr. Ashby Monk and Prof. Gordon Clark. Peter has extensive management consulting, investment research, and industry analysis experience. In addition to his work, Peter has led research on impact finance and strategic investment at Stanford University, collaborating with Planet Heritage and White Sand Investor Group. His publications include Sovereign Development Funds: The Governance and Management of Strategic Investment Institutions, which was published in the The Oxford Handbook of Sovereign Wealth Funds (2018). Peter has an MPhil in Business Administration and Finance from the Judge Business School, University of Cambridge, and a first-class honors BA in English and Critical Theory from Queen Mary, University of London. We are powered by: ---------------------------------------- Thrive in the Impact Economy. Join 20k+. Subscribe to our weekly newsletter for the latest news, exclusive interviews, and curated products that drive the Impact Economy. Our mission is to highlight and celebrate the founders, creators, investors, and conscious brands shaping the future of conscious business and philanthropy.
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| Zoila Jennings // Impact Investment Lead at the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation | 07 Jun 2024 | 00:28:58 | |
This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only, you should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.
In Episode 70 of the Investing in Impact podcast, I speak with Zoila Jennings, Impact Investment Lead at the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, on poverty alleviation and systems change through targeted community financing. Subscribe to our Causeartist newsletter here. This content is for informational purposes only, you should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice. Sound Bites
About Zoila In this position, she sourced, structured, and underwrote loans and equity investments for Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs). She also developed and executed investment initiatives aimed at addressing racial inequities, including a $25 million fund to support women of color microbusiness owners and the first CDFI-issued racial equity bond for targeted investments in underserved communities of color. Before joining U.S. Bank, Zoila spent a decade at JPMorgan Chase in New York, taking on various roles, including vice president for Community Development-New Markets Tax Credits.
At the heart of RWJF's mission is the belief that everyone in the U.S. should have the opportunity to live their healthiest life possible. Achieving this goal requires equitable capital flow to communities historically deprived of investment due to generations of racist policies and structural racism.
RWJF stands as a national leader in philanthropy, committed to transforming health across the nation within our lifetime. Through impact investments—which encompass deposits, loans, equity investments, and guarantees—RWJF collaborates with both public and private sector investors to channel more capital into underinvested communities. The foundation's vision encompasses flourishing communities where clean, safe drinking water and stable housing are accessible to all, jobs pay a living wage, and everyone has a fair chance to thrive. Since 2010, RWJF has allocated $625 million to impact investments, addressing structural barriers that perpetuate health inequities. These barriers include historical and ongoing disinvestment in housing, jobs, water infrastructure, and other critical community conditions. RWJF's investments target improving health and economic opportunities for communities, small business owners, and households that have historically faced a lack of investment, such as rural communities, communities of color, and low-income communities. RWJF aims to attract or "leverage" $1 billion from other investors—including banks, commercial lenders, insurance companies, and private investors—by 2025 to further this mission. ---------------------------------------- Thrive in the Impact Economy. Join 20k+. Subscribe to our weekly newsletter for the latest news, exclusive interviews, and curated products that drive the Impact Economy. Our mission is to highlight and celebrate the founders, creators, investors, and conscious brands shaping the future of conscious business and philanthropy.
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| Alasdair Maclay // Chief Strategy Officer at GSG Impact | 31 May 2024 | 00:35:57 | |
This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only, you should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.
In Episode 69 of the Investing in Impact podcast, I speak with Alasdair Maclay, Chief Strategy Officer at GSG Impact, on impact data and strategic leadership in Impact Investing. About Alasdair Alasdair Maclay is the Chief Strategy Officer at GSG Impact, where he serves on the Executive Committee and oversees the organization’s strategy, communications, development, and funding. From 2014 to 2019, Alasdair was the Director of Strategy at the Rhodes Trust, where he led philanthropic fundraising efforts totaling over £300 million, facilitated international expansion across Africa and Asia, and established strategic operating partnerships. With over 20 years of experience in financial services, Alasdair has specialized in emerging markets investment. His career includes a significant tenure at Actis, an emerging markets private equity fund manager, after joining CDC. He also worked for Sovereign Capital, a UK private equity firm, and Bain and Company, a global consulting firm. Alasdair holds an MBA from INSEAD and a joint honours degree in Russian and Czech language and literature from the University of Oxford. An active impact investor and entrepreneur, Alasdair is committed to achieving environmental and social outcomes. Our Discussion The conversation covers Alasdair Maclay's journey into impact investing, the work of GSG Impact, and the concept of impact valuation. It delves into the challenges and opportunities of impact investing, the role of blended finance, and the vision for a new economic system where impact is at the heart of every decision. The discussion also explores the use of impact valuation in making investment decisions and the potential for transparency in impact data through barcodes and consumer apps. The conversation covers a wide range of topics related to impact accounting, government policies, financial incentives, and the future of impact investing. It explores the challenges and opportunities in driving better outcomes for people and the planet, with a focus on the role of governments, financial markets, and local interventions. The discussion also highlights the importance of mandatory impact accounting, capital mobilization in emerging markets, and the need for collaborative efforts to achieve sustainable impact. Takeaways
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| Hardika Shah // Founder and CEO of Kinara Capital | 03 May 2024 | 00:38:10 | |
This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only, you should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.
In this episode, I speak with Hardika Shah, Founder and CEO of Kinara Capital, on transforming lives and local economies, by providing access to capital for small business entrepreneurs. Armed with a mission to empower the 70 million small business entrepreneurs in the country, Kinara has embarked on a journey to provide fast and flexible collateral-free business loans. Leveraging cutting-edge technology and a dedication to customer service, Kinara Capital revolutionized the lending landscape with its digital processes and doorstep assistance. Over the years, the company has disbursed more than $300 million to over 40,000 small business entrepreneurs, ushering thousands into the realm of financial inclusion. This transformative journey has not only created jobs and spurred economic growth but has also generated over $100 million in incremental income for MSMEs across India. Before embarking on her entrepreneurial journey, Hardika honed her skills as a management consultant, working on projects for global companies across the USA, Europe, and Asia-Pacific. Her passion for social impact led her to devote nearly a decade to mentoring emerging social entrepreneurs. At Kinara Capital, the mission is clear: to transform lives, livelihoods, and local economies by providing access to capital for every entrepreneur. With a vision of a financially inclusive world, Hardika and her team continue to pave the way for a brighter future for small business entrepreneurs across India. I hope you enjoy the conversation, until next time, stay humble and stay creative. Welcome to Causeartist. Social Entrepreneurs Interviews. Our mission is to empower and inspire social entrepreneurs, impact investors, impact professionals, and conscious consumers, who are dedicated to creating a more sustainable and regenerative world.
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| Robert Keith // Founder & Managing Principal of Beartooth | 16 Apr 2024 | 00:37:10 | |
This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only, you should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.
Subscribe to our Causeartist newsletter here. This content is for informational purposes only, you should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.
In Episode 68 of the Investing in Impact podcast, I speak with Robert Keith, the Founder and Managing Principal of Beartooth, on how environmental stewardship can be synonymous with financial gains.
In his role at Beartooth, Robert oversees all operations, with a particular emphasis on cultivating meaningful relationships in capital sourcing, investment structuring, and management.
Despite his academic and professional pursuits, Robert consistently found himself drawn back to his family's ranch near Cody, Wyoming. Eventually, he made the decision to cease commuting to coastal regions for work and instead founded Beartooth to pursue his passion for supporting ranchers and their communities. About Beartooth Beartooth Group is a Bozeman-based conservation investment firm. Founded in 2004, Beartooth partners with ranch sellers, owners, investors, and buyers to restore and steward the lands, waters, and wildlife of the American West. Beartooth does this by crafting creative solutions to conservation and economic challenges. ---------------------------------------- Thrive in the Impact Economy. Join 20k+. Subscribe to our weekly newsletter for the latest news, exclusive interviews, and curated products that drive the Impact Economy. Our mission is to highlight and celebrate the founders, creators, investors, and conscious brands shaping the future of conscious business and philanthropy.
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| Erin Sietstra // Head of Investments at Hopelab Ventures | 09 Apr 2024 | 00:31:59 | |
This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only, you should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.
Subscribe to our Causeartist newsletter here. This content is for informational purposes only, you should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.
In Episode 67 of the Investing in Impact podcast, I speak with Erin Sietstra, Head of Investments at Hopelab Ventures, on her journey, Health Tech, Medicare startups, and the mission and vision of Hopelab. Erin is responsible for the development and oversight of Hopelab’s work investing in organizations and companies that aim to improve the health and well-being of teens and young adults. In her role, she sources, executes, and manages investments, positioning Hopelab as both a financial and a strategic partner to entrepreneurs, thought leaders, and innovators. As a social impact investor, Hopelab Ventures invests in companies that support the mental health and well-being of adolescents, particularly in underserved communities. The organization backs founders with lived experience related to the youth and mental health topics it supports. The team believes those founders are uniquely equipped to develop effective solutions. Hopelab Ventures’ investment approach combines early-stage capital with expertise in research, design, youth co-creation, and payment models to support the development and adoption of better, more diverse, and accessible mental health and well-being solutions for young people at scale. When you get a chance, please share, rate, and subscribe to the podcast. Enjoy the interview. ---------------------------------------- Thrive in the Impact Economy. Join 20k+. Subscribe to our weekly newsletter for the latest news, exclusive interviews, and curated products that drive the Impact Economy. Our mission is to highlight and celebrate the founders, creators, investors, and conscious brands shaping the future of conscious business and philanthropy.
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| Weekly Brief - Investing in Impact | 29 Mar 2024 | 00:02:06 | |
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Hi everyone, this is Grant at Causeartist, welcome to this weeks Investing in Impact Brief. This week showcases some significant capital injections into the fields of climate tech and affordable housing. In our first piece of news, Satgana, a venture capital firm prioritizing climate tech solutions, has completed the final close of its first fund. Falling short of its €30 million target due to challenging fundraising conditions for first-time fund managers, they've nevertheless accrued €8 million. The company plans to back up to 30 early-stage climate-tech startups in Africa and Europe. Moving along, we look at New Summit Investments, which has entered the fundraising arena with ambitions to raise a new $100 million impact fund. Signaling a robust confidence in the continuous attractiveness of environmental and social impact ventures, New Summit's latest fund represents a significant leap from their previous $40 million. Up next, the state of Texas makes headlines with its bold decision to sever ties with BlackRock, withdrawing a massive $8.5 billion in assets. At the heart of the matter is the controversial and increasingly politicized ESG investing strategy. While ESG principles have been praised for promoting sustainability, Texas officials are pushing back, viewing it as an ideological maneuver that jeopardizes the traditional energy sectors. Lastly, we report on ABP, one of the largest global pension funds. They have declared a reduction in investments that significantly affect the climate, aiming to allocate more capital to companies and projects that are socially and environmentally positive. The Dutch fund, managing approximately 502 billion euros ($545 billion), intends to invest a minimum of 30 billion euros in "impact investments" by 2030, particularly in affordable and sustainable housing and energy projects. Connect with Grant ---------------------------------------- Thrive in the Impact Economy. Join 20k+. Subscribe to our weekly newsletter for the latest news, exclusive interviews, and curated products that drive the Impact Economy. Our mission is to highlight and celebrate the founders, creators, investors, and conscious brands shaping the future of conscious business and philanthropy.
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| Weekly Brief - Investing in Impact | 22 Mar 2024 | 00:03:03 | |
This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only, you should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.
Hi everyone, this is Grant at Causeartist, welcome to the Investing in Impact Brief. This week showcases some significant capital injections into the fields of climate technology and regenerative agriculture. First up, Montauk Climate, a new incubator committed to pioneering climate, infrastructure, and energy solutions, has made headlines with an $8.5 million launch. The incubator is set on assembling the finest tech minds to spur the transition to a sustainable, electrified future. Their focus is on harnessing experienced talent to turn innovative technologies into scalable companies. In the agriculture sector, The Rockefeller Foundation joins Mad Capital's Perennial Fund II with a focus on expanding regenerative organic farming. They've invested $50 million to support American farmers aiming for both ecological and financial strength. With less than 1% of U.S. farmland certified organic, access to capital stands as a formidable barrier. Funds like Perennial Fund II are integral to meeting the spike in consumer demand for regenerative organic products. Since its advent in 2019, Mad Capital has committed over $25 million to 30 farmers, supporting more than 10,500 acres transition to organic. In other developments within the climate technology sector, Silence, an innovative venture capital firm specializing in climate technology, has unveiled its strategy to support environmental initiatives. Their investment fund, totaling $35 million, oversees a diverse portfolio encompassing virtual power plants and circular economy marketplaces. Moving to Asia, where Fullerton Fund Management has attracted $100 million in their quest to accelerate decarbonization across emerging markets. The fund explicitly targets investments in companies that are not only committed to but are also actively lowering their carbon footprint. This initiative represents a concrete effort in aligning financial growth with environmental responsibility, an essential consideration in today's impact investment landscape. Engaging primarily with Asian companies, the Fullerton Carbon Action Fund has a unique strategy. It concentrates on a specific niche in the market that has so far been underserved: businesses with high carbon emissions that are on a clear trajectory towards reducing their environmental impact. It's about fueling the transition of these companies, and effectively, the industry at large. Finally, we arrive in Brussels, where World Fund has grown to 300 million euros. This venture capital firm is dedicated to supporting startups that develop technologies to combat climate change. Even with economic turmoil affecting private equity, major players like BPI France and PWC Germany have invested in World Fund, signaling a strong conviction in the dual potential of profitable investments and environmental benefits. Thank you for tuning in. Until next time, stay humble and stay creative. ---------------------------------------- Thrive in the Impact Economy. Join 20k+. Subscribe to our weekly newsletter for the latest news, exclusive interviews, and curated products that drive the Impact Economy. Our mission is to highlight and celebrate the founders, creators, investors, and conscious brands shaping the future of conscious business and philanthropy.
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| Anshul Magotra // Co-Founder and Partner of Social Innovation Circle | 19 Mar 2024 | 00:39:00 | |
This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only, you should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.
What's up everybody this is Grant at Causeartist, welcome to the Investing in Impact podcast, where we interview Impact Investors, General Partners, and Family Offices from around the world. Each week conversations will bring on industry insiders to discuss the latest news, topics, and trends in impact investing. My apologies for the delay on new episodes, but the Investing in Impact podcast is back with weekly episodes this year! And when there's big news in the industry, I'll be hopping in with quick updates on those interesting topics. As always, if you have any questions or thoughts, shoot me an email at grant@causeartist.com. In Episode 66 of the Investing in Impact podcast, Causeartist contributor, Rafael Aldon, speaks with Anshul Magotra, cofounder and partner at Social Innovation Circle. Anshul shares her journey from a career in banking to working in the impact venture sector. She also talks about how she stumbled into the world of social innovation through volunteering at Ashoka, where she discovered the power of social entrepreneurs and their innovative solutions. This experience led Anshul to co-found Social Innovation Circle, an organization that supports social entrepreneurs and impact investors. Anshul emphasizes the importance of funding for social entrepreneurs and the need for expertise in finance and business to help them scale their impact. She also highlights the role of angel investors and the creation of a syndicate to increase the flow of capital into social enterprises. Anshul also touches on their unique business model, which revolves around coaching, capital, concepts, and community. When you get a chance, please share, rate, and subscribe to the podcast. Enjoy the interview. ---------------------------------------- Thrive in the Impact Economy. Join 20k+. Subscribe to our weekly newsletter for the latest news, exclusive interviews, and curated products that drive the Impact Economy. Our mission is to highlight and celebrate the founders, creators, investors, and conscious brands shaping the future of conscious business and philanthropy.
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| Addy Windsor-Clive // Investment Manager at Regenerate Ventures | 08 Nov 2023 | 00:45:14 | |
This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only, you should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.
Addy is a dynamic Investment Manager at Regenerate Ventures, focusing on fundraising, deal flow, and portfolio management. With her diverse experience across agri-tech, VC, and regenerative agriculture, she excels at bridging the gap between investors and entrepreneurs.
About Regenerate Asset Management Regenerate is actively involved in a global network bridging the gap between natural capital and the international finance community. In areas such as sustainable agriculture, the right approach creates opportunities to positively impact the environment while producing high quality food and fiber. Regenerate's agricultural investments focus on improving soil health, which has positive ripple effects on biodiversity, water quality, and farming economics. Through its network, Regenerate is linking the worlds of finance and regeneration to fund scalable and impactful solutions. With a mission to heal the planet, Regenerate makes investments that restore natural systems while delivering competitive financial returns. The company is at the forefront of driving capital towards regenerative projects that benefit both people and planet. ---------------------------------------- Thrive in the Impact Economy. Join 20k+. Subscribe to our weekly newsletter for the latest news, exclusive interviews, and curated products that drive the Impact Economy. Our mission is to highlight and celebrate the founders, creators, investors, and conscious brands shaping the future of conscious business and philanthropy.
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| Gavin Smith PhD, Managing Director, Head of Equity Research and Sustainable Investing for PGIM Quantitative Solutions | 25 Sep 2024 | 00:36:03 | |
This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only, you should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.
In episode 78 the Investing in Impact podcast, I speak with Gavin Smith PhD, Managing Director, Head of Equity Research and Sustainable Investing for PGIM Quantitative Solutions, on his journey into sustainable investing and the evolution of ESG and SDGs. Gavin Smith, PhD, is the Managing Director and Head of Equity Research and Sustainable Investing at PGIM Quantitative Solutions. In this role, he leads the integration of ESG factors into the firm’s investment platform and oversees research and analysis for Quantitative Equity portfolios. Prior to this, Gavin was a portfolio manager and a key member of PGIM’s Research team, focusing on alpha and implementation strategies. Before joining PGIM, he led the North American Quantitative Research team at Macquarie Capital and held research roles at Barclays Capital and Plato Investment Management in Sydney, Australia. Gavin holds a BComm (Honors) in finance from the University of Wollongong and a PhD in finance from the University of New South Wales, Australia. Takeaways
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| Alina Truhina // Managing Partner at The Radical Fund | 23 Oct 2023 | 00:37:26 | |
This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only, you should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.
Alina serves as the CEO and Managing Partner of The Radical Fund, an early-stage VC fund with a unique mission – investing in and supporting entrepreneurs who are driving rapid solutions for an inclusive climate transition, strengthening the foundations of a more resilient Southeast Asia. Connect with Alina on LinkedIn.
About The Radical Fund
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| Krisztina Tora // Chief Market Development Officer at The Global Steering Group for Impact Investment | 28 Sep 2023 | 00:46:19 | |
This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only, you should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.
Krisztina Tora, as the Chief Market Development Officer at GSG, plays a pivotal role in mobilizing capital for positive impact across 70 nations. Her expertise extends to advising governments, financial institutions, and other stakeholders on strategies to accelerate capital flow, ultimately benefiting both people and the planet. She champions the cause of systemic change, with a particular emphasis on addressing the financing gap for Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in emerging markets. Krisztina also leads efforts to drive policy transformations and the establishment of innovative financial instruments and impact funds.
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| Jessica Burley, Investor at Planet A Ventures | 18 Aug 2023 | 00:36:17 | |
This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only, you should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.
In Episode 62 of the Investing in Impact podcast, Causeartist contributor, Rafael Aldon, speaks with Jessica Burley, Investor at Planet A Ventures, on investing in early-stage startups that are developing climate change solutions. Jessica Burley is an investor at Planet A Ventures, a venture capital firm that invests in climate tech startups. She holds a Politics degree from Cambridge University and has a background in climate finance and sustainable development. Prior to joining Planet A, she worked as an analyst at a climate VC firm and as a researcher for the United Nations.
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| Arman Anatürk /// Co-Founder of HackCapital - The Infrastructure Platform for Sustainable Finance | 19 Jul 2023 | 00:39:31 | |
This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only, you should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.
In Episode 61 of the Investing in Impact podcast, Causeartist contributor, Rafael Aldon, speaks with Arman Anatürk, the Co-Founder and CEO of HackCapital, on building the infrastructure platform for sustainable finance. Arman is passionate about using technology to solve some of the world's biggest challenges, such as climate change and food security. He believes that HackCapital can play a key role in mobilizing capital towards these important areas. Arman is a strong advocate for building community and infrastructure to support impact investing. He believes that by working together, we can create a more sustainable and equitable future. About HackCapital HackCapital is a platform that provides purpose-built fundraising and liquidity tools for impact funds and startups. The platform offers a variety of features, including:
In addition to these features, HackCapital also offers a number of benefits, including:
HackCapital is a valuable tool for impact investors and fund managers who are looking to raise capital and manage their investments more effectively. The platform's features and benefits can help investors to access a new pool of investors, increase liquidity, save time and money, and achieve their impact goals. ---------------------------------------- Thrive in the Impact Economy. Join 20k+. Subscribe to our weekly newsletter for the latest news, exclusive interviews, and curated products that drive the Impact Economy. Our mission is to highlight and celebrate the founders, creators, investors, and conscious brands shaping the future of conscious business and philanthropy.
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| Laura Ortiz Montemayor /// Founder of SVX México and GP at Regenera Ventures Fund | 05 Jul 2023 | 01:02:30 | |
This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only, you should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.
In Episode 60 of the Investing in Impact podcast, Causeartist contributor, Rafael Aldon, speaks with Laura Ortiz Montemayor, Founder of SVX México and GP at Regenera Ventures Fund, on preserving biodiversity and advocating for real Impact Investing. Laura Ortiz Montemayor is a living-systems thinker and mompreneur. As the founder of SVX México, she is deeply passionate about fostering Regenerative Culture, preserving biodiversity, and advocating for Impact Investing. Laura's ultimate mission is to redirect capital towards serving life rather than controlling it, and she dedicates her efforts to transforming investment paradigms. Over the years, Laura has focused her work on driving social, economic, and environmental justice through providing advice and education on Impact Investment. She actively contributes as a board member of the Mexico Impact Investing Steering Committee and Taskforce (AII MX) and volunteers as a mentor for ALTERNARE A.C. Laura is also one of the founding members of the ASEM (Mexican Association of Entrepreneurs). Currently, Laura and her business partner, Stevie Smyth, are diligently structuring their inaugural fund, Regenera Ventures. This fund is dedicated to investing in the regenerative transition for rural Mexico, with a gender lens and a landscape approach. Laura's expertise has reached an extensive audience, as she has taught impact investing, climate finance, and regenerative economy principles to over 1,400 Latin American investors. Her valuable insights have been shared in various countries, amplifying her impact on a global scale. Prior to her entrepreneurial journey, Laura accumulated over eight years of experience in wealth and asset management, working with prestigious institutions such as BBVA and Citi Banamex. Her educational background includes a degree in International Business from ITESM (Tec de Monterrey), along with certifications in Impact Investment from Oxford University, Regenerative Entrepreneurship from UCI, Venture Capital and Private Equity Seminar from RiskMathics, Investment Management training from ANDE, and Behavioral Economics from NYU. Laura's commitment to making a difference extends beyond her professional endeavors. As an angel investor in Desplastifícate and a micro investor through collective finance in two other social and environmental impact companies, she actively supports ventures aligned with her values. Laura's unwavering dedication and diverse experiences make her a true force for positive change. ---------------------------------------- Thrive in the Impact Economy. Join 20k+. Subscribe to our weekly newsletter for the latest news, exclusive interviews, and curated products that drive the Impact Economy. Our mission is to highlight and celebrate the founders, creators, investors, and conscious brands shaping the future of conscious business and philanthropy.
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| Machtelt Groothuis /// Founding Partner of Rubio Impact Ventures | 13 Jun 2023 | 00:22:53 | |
This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only, you should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.
In Episode 59 of the Investing in Impact podcast, I speak with Machtelt Groothuis, founding partner of Rubio Impact Ventures, on backing entrepreneurs who unite powerful impact with a scalable commercial business. Machtelt is a founding partner of Rubio Impact Ventures, an impact investment firm that backs entrepreneurs who unite powerful impact with a scalable commercial business. She is passionate about using capital to drive positive change and has over 20 years of experience in the impact investing and social enterprise space. Before founding Rubio Impact Ventures, Machtelt was a Managing Director at 3i, a leading global private equity firm, where she led the firm's impact investing activities in Europe. She also served as a Director at AlpInvest Partners, a leading global private equity firm, where she focused on investments in the healthcare and technology sectors. About Rubio Impact Ventures The Rubio Impact Ventures team is passionate about using capital to drive positive change. They have a deep understanding of the impact investing landscape and are committed to finding and supporting the best entrepreneurs in the world. The investment philosophy of Rubio Impact Ventures is centered around long-term partnerships and collaborative relationships. They aim to be more than just a source of capital by actively working alongside founders to help them navigate challenges, refine their strategies, and scale their businesses. ---------------------------------------- Thrive in the Impact Economy. Join 20k+. Subscribe to our weekly newsletter for the latest news, exclusive interviews, and curated products that drive the Impact Economy. Our mission is to highlight and celebrate the founders, creators, investors, and conscious brands shaping the future of conscious business and philanthropy.
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| Michael W. Sonnenfeldt /// Entrepreneur, Investor, and Philanthropist - Founder of TIger 21 and MUUS Climate Partners | 01 Jun 2023 | 00:55:00 | |
This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only, you should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.
In Episode 58 of the Investing in Impact podcast, we speak with Michael W. Sonnenfeldt, Entrepreneur, Investor, and Philanthropist on his life's journey and the future of climate investing and climate startups. Michael W. Sonnenfeldt is an accomplished entrepreneur, investor, and philanthropist. With a visionary mindset, he spearheaded the groundbreaking transformation of the Harborside Financial Center in Jersey City, NJ during the 1980s, making it the largest commercial renovation project of its time. Michael went on to establish and lead Emmes & Company, a distinguished real estate investment boutique specializing in the acquisition of distressed portfolios. Having an extensive background in renewable energy, Michael's journey in this sector began with the creation of SOL, a solar company that he built from the ground up. Eventually, SOL was acquired by Carmanah Technologies Corp., a reputable Canadian company engaged in the manufacturing and distribution of solar products and systems. His knowledge and expertise in renewable energy span over several decades. Educationally, Michael holds both Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Management from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, further enhancing his foundation for success. Building upon his entrepreneurial achievements, he founded Tiger 21, an esteemed learning and investment network catering to high-net-worth individuals. This platform offers a unique space for peers to engage in open discussions about family, legacy, and investment, allowing Michael to share his evolving priorities. Michael's dedication extends beyond his professional endeavors. Over the past twenty-five years, he has actively contributed to numerous non-profit organizations focusing on crucial causes such as the environment, climate change, national security, Middle East peace, international peacekeeping, the US/UN relationship, and communal development. His commitment to these important issues influences both his business and philanthropic work, shaping the mission of MUUS to invest in a more sustainable and livable future. ---------------------------------------- Thrive in the Impact Economy. Join 20k+. Subscribe to our weekly newsletter for the latest news, exclusive interviews, and curated products that drive the Impact Economy. Our mission is to highlight and celebrate the founders, creators, investors, and conscious brands shaping the future of conscious business and philanthropy.
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| Shuyin Tang /// Partner at Patamar Capital + Co-Founder & CEO at the Beacon Fund | 25 May 2023 | 00:46:58 | |
This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only, you should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.
In Episode 57 of the Investing in Impact podcast, we speak with Shuyin Tang, Partner at Patamar Capital and Co-Founder & CEO at the Beacon Fund, on empowering female entrepreneurs in Southeast Asia's emerging markets. Shuyin is a Partner at Patamar Capital, a leading impact investing firm in Southeast Asia. She holds responsibility for Patamar's investing activities in the Mekong region and has successfully led investments into education, FinTech, employee benefits, and healthcare companies. Shuyin plays a pivotal role in spearheading Patamar’s gender lens investing efforts, overseeing the management of the Investing in Women Fund, which stands as one of Southeast Asia's pioneering gender lens investing funds. Additionally, she co-founded and currently serves as the CEO of the Beacon Fund, an innovative fund dedicated to empowering female entrepreneurs in Southeast Asia's emerging markets. With a wealth of experience across various domains, Shuyin has worked in strategy consulting at Bain & Company, development consulting at TechnoServe, and impact investing at Patamar Capital and LGT Venture Philanthropy. Her professional journey has taken her through Australia, India, and Southeast Asia. In addition to her private sector roles, she has also served in the U.S. Congress, the Australian public service, as well as at The Lowy Institute for International Policy and UNICEF. Shuyin's exceptional contributions have garnered recognition throughout her career. She was honored as one of Australia's "100 Women of Influence" by the Australian Financial Review in 2015, identified as an Asia 21 Young Leader by the Asia Society in 2016, and acknowledged as one of the “40 Under 40 Most Influential Asian-Australians” in 2020. Currently, she actively serves on the Investment Advisory Council of the Equality Fund and the Impact Investing Council of the Global Private Capital Association. Shuyin graduated summa cum laude from the Australian National University, where she was awarded the University Medal for her outstanding academic achievements. ---------------------------------------- Thrive in the Impact Economy. Join 20k+. Subscribe to our weekly newsletter for the latest news, exclusive interviews, and curated products that drive the Impact Economy. Our mission is to highlight and celebrate the founders, creators, investors, and conscious brands shaping the future of conscious business and philanthropy.
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| Sarah Nolet /// Co-Founder & Managing Partner at Tenacious Ventures - Backing Early-Stage Agtech Companies to Tackle Climate Change | 16 May 2023 | 00:35:28 | |
This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only, you should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.
In Episode 56 of the Investing in Impact podcast, we speak with Sarah Nolet, Co-Founder & Managing Partner at Tenacious Ventures, on backing early-stage Agtech companies to tackle climate change. Sarah is the co-founder of Tenacious Ventures, a specialized agrifood tech venture firm that operates with a high-support, high conviction approach. Throughout her career, Sarah has played a pivotal role in cultivating the early-stage agtech ecosystem. Her contributions range from advising numerous startups and designing accelerator programs to consulting established agribusinesses. Additionally, Sarah has worked closely with industry, universities, and government bodies to develop and implement forward-thinking initiatives that drive food system innovation.
She holds a Masters in System Design and Management from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), where she gained a deep understanding of complex systems and their management. Prior to that, she completed her Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science and Human Factors Engineering at Tufts University, equipping her with a strong foundation in technology and its human-centered applications.
With a strong commitment to driving carbon neutrality and resilience in the face of climate change, Tenacious Ventures is actively investing in innovative startups that are transforming the way we produce, distribute, and consume food. In 2019, Tenacious Ventures embarked on its journey and successfully raised A$35 million for its inaugural fund in 2021. This achievement was made possible through significant cornerstone commitments of A$8 million each from two influential entities: the Clean Energy Finance Corporation and Grok Ventures, the private investment firm owned by Mike and Annie Cannon-Brookes. Since then, Tenacious Ventures has been actively deploying its funds and supporting a diverse range of innovative companies that are driving positive change in the food and agriculture sector. The firm has recently initiated the fundraising process for its second fund. The firm aims to raise a total of A$70 million ($47 million; €47 million) for this fund, demonstrating its commitment to supporting innovative startups in the agricultural technology sector.
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| Building the world's largest event for the planet, attended by 40,000 people, including 1,200 impact investors! - Kevin Tayebaly, Co-Founder of ChangeNow | 02 May 2023 | 00:37:47 | |
This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only, you should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.
In Episode 55 of the Investing in Impact podcast, we speak with Kevin Tayebaly, Co-Founder of ChangeNow, on building one of the largest impact events in the world, attended by 40,000 people, including 1,200 impact investors! About Kevin During his time at INSEAD in 2014-2015, Kevin reflected on his career experiences and began exploring the concept of mission-driven companies that combine purpose with a scalable business model. He went on to found his second impact venture, an e-commerce platform supporting local independent retailers in large cities. His efforts earned him the BCG Young Social Entrepreneur of the Year Award in 2016. In 2017, Kevin co-founded ChangeNOW, the world's largest event for the planet, with the goal of promoting a new, virtuous, and responsible business culture globally. His achievements and leadership in the field earned him a place on the Choiseul 100 list in 2023, recognizing top French economic leaders under 40 years old. About ChangeNow The 2023 edition of the ChangeNow Summit was held in the heart of Paris, at the Grand Palais, from May 25th to May 27st. The event attracts over 40,000 attendees, including entrepreneurs, investors, academics, and policymakers, from more than 120 countries. One of the highlights of the summit was the exhibition area, which featured over 1,000 projects and solutions from around the world. Attendees had the opportunity to interact with the exhibitors, learn about their products and services, and network with like-minded individuals. The exhibition area was divided into several zones, including Energy & Mobility, Food & Agriculture, Circular Economy, and Social & Inclusive Business. In addition to the exhibition area, the summit featured a series of keynote speeches, panel discussions, and workshops on various topics related to sustainability and innovation. Speakers included business leaders, policymakers, and social entrepreneurs who shared their experiences, insights, and visions for a better future. Some of the key themes that emerged from the discussions were the importance of collaboration, innovation, and the role of technology in driving positive change. ---------------------------------------- Thrive in the Impact Economy. Join 20k+. Subscribe to our weekly newsletter for the latest news, exclusive interviews, and curated products that drive the Impact Economy. Our mission is to highlight and celebrate the founders, creators, investors, and conscious brands shaping the future of conscious business and philanthropy.
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| Ethical Disruption of the Criminal Justice System - Lawrence Williams III // Partner at The De-carceration Fund | 09 Sep 2024 | 00:23:05 | |
This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only, you should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.
In episode 77 the Investing in Impact podcast, I speak with Lawrence Williams III, Partner at the De-Carceration Fund, on the fund's mission to support startups that address the challenges faced by incarcerated individuals and those reentering society.
The Economics of Incarceration The current system perpetuates a cycle of financial exploitation and human suffering. Private companies make approximately $7 billion from prison operations, with over $3 billion of that coming directly from the families of incarcerated individuals. Each inmate costs an average of $35,000 per year, yet over half of those released return to prison within three years. This broken system not only drains resources but fails to provide meaningful solutions to reduce crime or support rehabilitation.
These costs ripple through society, affecting families, communities, and the overall economy. ---------------------------------------- Thrive in the Impact Economy. Join 20k+. Subscribe to our weekly newsletter for the latest news, exclusive interviews, and curated products that drive the Impact Economy. Our mission is to highlight and celebrate the founders, creators, investors, and conscious brands shaping the future of conscious business and philanthropy.
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| Reducing Risk in Impact Investing - Milti Chryssavgis // CEO & Founder of Drashta Impact | 25 Apr 2023 | 00:32:13 | |
This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only, you should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.
In Episode 54 of the Investing in Impact podcast, we speak with Milti Chryssavgis, CEO & Founder of Drashta Impact, on reducing risk in Impact Investing to catalyze more capital into impact ventures. Milti started his career in investment management, building a multi-manager portfolio of systematic trading strategies and developing a risk parity approach to minimize risk and volatility while still generating strong returns. Driven to create positive impact in the world, Milti determined that the most effective way to catalyse change was to harness the power of investment to accelerate breakthrough technologies and business models. Milti founded Drashta Impact to solve the biggest pain points impact investors face in order to mobilise a larger quantum of capital for climate solutions. Drashta provides investors with the tools and solutions to allocate to specific impact opportunities of their choice with tailored risk mitigation and additional liquidity. About Drashta Drashta Impact was founded to solve the key pain points impact investors face, developing de-risking and liquidity solutions to empower investors to substantially amplify their impact securely. This enables investors to allocate capital to specific impact opportunities with a range of unique advantages compared to allocating directly:
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| Scott Onder // Co-Founder and Senior Managing Director of Mercy Corps Ventures | 12 Apr 2023 | 00:28:48 | |
This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only, you should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.
In Episode 53 of the Investing in Impact podcast, we speak with Scott Onder, Co-Founder and Senior Managing Director of Mercy Corps Ventures, on investing in and promoting venture-led solutions to enhance the resilience of underserved communities and individuals. Scott Onder is the Chief Investment Officer at Mercy Corps, where he oversees the agency's global strategy for impact investing, innovative finance, Web3 initiatives, and strategic partnerships with technology ventures.
About Mercy Corps Ventures
Since its establishment in 2015 as the impact investing arm of Mercy Corps, the firm has facilitated the scaling up of 43 early-stage ventures, helping them raise over $396.7 million in follow-on capital. The firm's portfolio concentrates on solutions in adaptive agriculture and food systems, inclusive fintech services, and climate-smart systems and tech infrastructure. Its goal is to enable those living in frontier markets to withstand disruption and plan for the future by catalyzing the ecosystem towards smarter and more impactful investments. The firm's focus on supporting underserved groups to participate in the global economy has led to its promotion of emerging decentralized finance (DeFi) solutions that accelerate global financial inclusion. In partnership with companies, Mercy Corps Ventures responsibly pilots the use of cryptocurrencies and blockchain tools to provide reliable and direct access to financial services for un/underbanked populations. Mercy Corps Ventures plans to launch Fund II, the Resilient Future Fund, to invest in and support approximately 20 early-stage startups in frontier markets with solutions that build resilience to the accelerating shocks caused by climate change. Entrepreneurs worldwide are deploying disruptive business models and transformative technologies to address the most significant challenges of our time. These startups have the potential to reach 3.3 billion climate-vulnerable people, 1.4 billion unbanked people, and 162 million small businesses with innovative climate-focused and digital finance products that could drive their resilience. However, they often lack sufficient capital and access to resources to ensure their ventures survive and scale. ---------------------------------------- Thrive in the Impact Economy. Join 20k+. Subscribe to our weekly newsletter for the latest news, exclusive interviews, and curated products that drive the Impact Economy. Our mission is to highlight and celebrate the founders, creators, investors, and conscious brands shaping the future of conscious business and philanthropy.
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| Building the Tech Infrastructure for Values-Based Investing - Conor Murray // CEO and Co-founder of OpenInvest | 04 Apr 2023 | 00:21:23 | |
This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only, you should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.
In Episode 52 of the Investing in Impact podcast, we speak with Conor Murray, CEO and Cofounder of OpenInvest, on getting acquired by J.P. Morgan and building the technology infrastructure for values-based Investing. Conor Murray is co-founder and Chief Executive Officer of OpenInvest, where he guides values-based innovation and integration in partnership with J.P. Morgan Wealth Management. After graduating from MIT, Conor began his career in financial technology at Morgan Stanley and went on to lead teams of engineers responsible for portfolio construction and optimization at Bridgewater Associates, the world’s largest hedge fund. About OpenInvest The teams background in building scalable and complex financial systems led them to create an asset management platform with personalized value filters. In recent years, there has been a significant shift in the investment industry as investors increasingly seek to align their financial goals with their personal values. This trend has given rise to values-based investing, an investment approach that allows investors to create portfolios that reflect their personal beliefs and values. In 2016, OpenInvest was established as a Public Benefit Corporation, a designation that allowed us to cement the mission in their legal charter: to mainstream values-based investing through technology. The OpenInvest platform allows investors to personalize their investment portfolios based on their values and beliefs. Through technology, they aim to make values-based investing accessible and transparent, empowering investors to align their financial goals with their personal values. OpenInvest was acquired by J.P. Morgan in 2021, with the intention to scale the movement, offering investors an intuitive and personalized investing experience. ---------------------------------------- Thrive in the Impact Economy. Join 20k+. Subscribe to our weekly newsletter for the latest news, exclusive interviews, and curated products that drive the Impact Economy. Our mission is to highlight and celebrate the founders, creators, investors, and conscious brands shaping the future of conscious business and philanthropy.
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| Empowering Early-Stage and Aspiring Ocean Entrepreneurs From Diverse Backgrounds - Daniel Kleinman // Seaworthy Collective | 30 Mar 2023 | 00:40:55 | |
This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only, you should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.
In Episode 51 of the Investing in Impact podcast, Causeartist contributor, Rafael Aldon, speaks with Daniel Kleinman, Founder and CEO of Seaworthy Collective, on empowering early-stage and aspiring Ocean entrepreneurs from diverse backgrounds. Seaworthy Collective (501c3) is a startup incubator and community based in Miami, focused on BlueTech (ocean innovation). Their goal is to eliminate barriers and foster inclusivity in ocean and climate impact innovation. The organization aims to create a world of endless opportunities where everyone can contribute to finding solutions that make a positive difference for our planet's oceans. They support and empower Sea Change Makers, including early-stage and aspiring entrepreneurs from diverse backgrounds and impact areas globally. These innovators drive progress for our oceans, which cover 71% of the planet, with the ultimate goal of regenerating 100% of the planet. About Daniel Daniel Kleinman is Seaworthy Collective's Founder and CEO, and a marine roboticist. Daniel received a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Florida, and a Master of Professional Science in Exploration Science from the University of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science. As an undergraduate, Daniel interned with the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution and became versed in design and systems thinking as a University Innovation Fellow. After graduating in 2015, Daniel started his career as a pilot and test engineer for Bluefin Robotics' unmanned underwater vehicles in Boston. Daniel then served as a Navy contractor and mechanical engineer in maritime systems in San Diego. In 2020, Daniel launched the Seaworthy Collective community in Miami to break the silos he experienced in industry by supporting fellow impact changemakers addressing the ocean’s greatest problems. Through Seaworthy Foundation, Daniel and his team created programs to serve their community, which started with the Sea Change Maker Series and Venture Studio. Daniel also serves as an advisor for Opportunity Miami and The Shrimp Society, a steering committee member for Ocean Visions’ Global Ecosystem for Ocean Solutions. Daniel is also a member of The Explorers Club, a Miami Global Shaper, and an On Deck Catalyst Founding Fellow. Daniel has been recognized as one of Miami’s Ambassadors for Sustainable Development Goal 14, a 30 Under 30 by the University of Miami, and a Future Climate Leader by the Aspen Institute. ---------------------------------------- Thrive in the Impact Economy. Join 20k+. Subscribe to our weekly newsletter for the latest news, exclusive interviews, and curated products that drive the Impact Economy. Our mission is to highlight and celebrate the founders, creators, investors, and conscious brands shaping the future of conscious business and philanthropy.
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| Investing in Women and Climate to Create Long-Term Jobs and Prosperity - Ladé Araba // Executive Director of AlphaMundi Foundation | 27 Mar 2023 | 00:30:34 | |
This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only, you should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.
In episode 50 of the Investing in Impact podcast, I speak with Ladé Araba, Executive Director of AlphaMundi Foundation(AMF), on investing in women and climate to create long-term jobs and prosperity. Ladé Araba is a senior Development Finance Executive and Board Member with over 20 years of experience. Prior to becoming the Executive Director of the AlphaMundi Foundation, she was the Managing Director for Africa at Convergence Blended Finance. She also sits on the Equality Fund’s Investment Advisory Council, serves as a Non Executive Director on the Board of African Risk Capacity (ARC) Ltd, is the Co-Founder/President of the Visiola Foundation, and was an Advisory Committee Member at the Green Outcomes Fund. She previously served as Technical Adviser to the former Minister of Finance of Nigeria and was the Head of the Strategic Monitoring Unit. She was also an Adviser in the Power Sector Team at the Nigeria Infrastructure Advisory Facility (NIAF). She was previously a Senior Investment Officer in Infrastructure Finance at the African Development Bank and served as Technical Adviser to the Executive Secretary of the UN Economic Commission for Africa. Ms. Araba was an Enterprise Development Specialist at the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and also worked for the QED Group LLC in Washington, DC. She holds a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree from Thunderbird School of Global Management and a dual Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) degree in Management Information Systems (MIS) and International Business from the University of Oklahoma (2001). A native English speaker, she is fluent in French and Italian and has basic knowledge of Spanish. About AlphaMundi Foundation AlphaMundi Foundation's mission is to strengthen the long-term commercial viability of SMEs in Africa and Latin America to drive economic transformation. This leads to more jobs and income generation benefiting more people and in turn, increased purchasing power and improved qualities of life. The vision: Economic transformation where SMEs in Africa and Latin America can scale sustainably and create well-paid jobs. What they do:
GLIC field building We believe gender and climate issues can't be addressed on an ad-hoc basis. Rather, these complex challenges require an intentional approach, which brings explicit gender and climate solutions into all investment decisions. Over recent years, gender lens investing has gained traction, although as global temperatures rise, the demand for climate investing will only continue to increase. That's how we came to coining a new term: GLIC—Gender Lens Investing for Climate. ---------------------------------------- Thrive in the Impact Economy. Join 20k+. Subscribe to our weekly newsletter for the latest news, exclusive interviews, and curated products that drive the Impact Economy. Our mission is to highlight and celebrate the founders, creators, investors, and conscious brands shaping the future of conscious business and philanthropy.
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| Princess Aghayere & John Gough // ICA Fund | 20 Mar 2023 | 00:13:34 | |
This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only, you should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.
In episode 49 of the Investing in Impact podcast, I speak with Princess Aghayere & John Gough of ICA Fund, on working to close the gender and racial wealth gap in the Bay Area through investing in local entrepreneurs. ICA Fund is a nonprofit organization that works to close the gender and racial wealth gap in the Bay Area by providing coaching, connections, and capital to entrepreneurs who have been overlooked by mainstream funders. Through investment and mentorship initiatives, they help systemically underrepresented Bay Area entrepreneurs grow their businesses. They are also committed to building an inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem in the Bay Area. ICA helps business owners increase their knowledge about how to start a business, develop resources needed for success, establish networks with other entrepreneurs, secure financing options that meet their needs, and position themselves for growth. The ICA Impact Note: helping great business grow shared wealth The new ICA Impact Note is an innovative investment structure that helps entrepreneurs prioritize social impacts–like good job creation, workforce diversity, and profit distribution–as they grow their business. Many founders set out to leverage their business to create change in their community, but those aims can be chipped away while growing and fundraising in a competitive landscape. When a company receives investment through the ICA Impact Note, the business must define the measurable social impact they want to create and the trade-offs they’ll need to make in order to achieve them. The note is designed so that as impact milestones are met, the investor returns ownership percentages back to the company. Through this structure, the investor and the company are able to work in real partnership to scale social returns for the community by growing a profitable business. The design of this note builds off of ICA’s 10 years of experience deploying capital for community-minded growth-stage businesses and is free to use by other investors working to prioritize social impact. About Princess Princess has experience working in a minority-owned private equity fund called IMB Partners and co-founded a non-profit called Rebound Liberia. The nonprofit empowers young women through basketball and leadership development. Following the launch of Rebound Liberia, Princess had a short stint playing professionally in Spain in the LF2 league. Princess graduated from the University of Pennsylvania with a Bachelor’s in Health and Societies and a minor in International Development. Outside of work, she loves traveling and is an avid basketball fan. She believes entrepreneurship is one of the most effective ways to promote economic growth and development. She hopes to facilitate ICA's mission of advising and providing capital for high potential businesses to address the gender and racial wealth gap. About John John has over 20 years’ experience in corporate finance, international banking, impact investing, and has held executive leadership and operating roles in entrepreneurial ventures. John believes that supportive and patient capital can be used to reach, serve, and bring meaningful change to communities. Prior to ICA, John founded True North Capital Management LLC, an investment management business focused on public equities impact and essential services investing. John also served as Head of Global Corporate Banking in Asia-Pacific for Wells Fargo, living with his family in Hong Kong for 9 years; Managing Director at LoopNet Inc (NASDAQ: “LOOP”), a venture capital start-up; Farallon Capital in San Francisco; and Grameen Bank, a micro-credit lender in Dhaka, Bangladesh. John serves as a Board observer for Firebrand Artisan Breads, and Advisor to NowHer.org focused on Philippines social impact and micro-enterprise investment/development. John holds an MBA from UC Berkeley Haas School of Business (Haas School Scholar), and graduated from Washington University in St. Louis (Magna Cum Laude). ---------------------------------------- Thrive in the Impact Economy. Join 20k+. Subscribe to our weekly newsletter for the latest news, exclusive interviews, and curated products that drive the Impact Economy. Our mission is to highlight and celebrate the founders, creators, investors, and conscious brands shaping the future of conscious business and philanthropy.
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| Chirag Gupta // Managing Partner at 8X Ventures | 29 Aug 2022 | 00:31:38 | |
This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only, you should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.
In episode 48 of the Investing in Impact podcast, I speak with Chirag Gupta, Managing Partner at 8X Ventures, on investing in Deep Tech and its potential to impact the world for billions of people. Chirag has 15+ years experience in venture capital, startup mentoring, strategy design, strategy execution, organisation design, investment banking and business analytics. He trained in Strategy, Finance, Human Capital and Statistics by top global universities – Harvard University, University of Chicago, Nanyang Technological University and the University of Delhi. He has award-winning experience in managing C-suite clients for building organizational level strategic frameworks, organization restructuring, and strategic manpower planning. About 8X Ventures 8X Ventures invest and enable startups that will lead disruptive innovation and create sustainable value to industries and economies. Focus areas include: Technologies: Artificial intelligence (AI), Big data, 3D printing, Robotics, and Internet of things (IoT) ---------------------------------------- Thrive in the Impact Economy. Join 20k+. Subscribe to our weekly newsletter for the latest news, exclusive interviews, and curated products that drive the Impact Economy. Our mission is to highlight and celebrate the founders, creators, investors, and conscious brands shaping the future of conscious business and philanthropy.
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| Impact Investing, Taiwan, and the Future of Sustainability in the Region - Lawrence Yen // Founding Partner at MIH Impact Venture Capital | 17 Aug 2022 | 00:58:55 | |
This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only, you should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.
In episode 47 of the Investing in Impact podcast, I speak with Lawrence Yen, Founding Partner at MIH Impact Venture Capital, on impact investing, Taiwan, and the future of sustainability in the region. Lawrence is based out of Taipei and Shanghai, currently work with a group of family offices from Taiwan. They setup an impact investment arm starting 2020, with focus in environment+ technology and social value and equality enabling businesses. Lawrence was born in Taipei, raised and educated in Canada and moved to Shanghai in 2005. Their partners come from businesses in hardware, software technology, retail, textile, food and beverage, pharmaceutical, and a slew of other businesses in Greater China. The mission is to find passionate business founders with great products that contributes to sustainability and social values, and to invest both financially as well as channel and distribution. Lawrence believes for earlier stage companies and impact companies, by merely contributing funding is insufficient; hence, coming from family businesses in various sectors and supply chains allow them to help up-and-coming companies and ideas grow in Greater China. From Shanghai and Taipei, he explores sustainable businesses across the world, and try to find angles to help aspirational founders build businesses, as well as invest. ---------------------------------------- Thrive in the Impact Economy. Join 20k+. Subscribe to our weekly newsletter for the latest news, exclusive interviews, and curated products that drive the Impact Economy. Our mission is to highlight and celebrate the founders, creators, investors, and conscious brands shaping the future of conscious business and philanthropy.
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| The Future of Water Investments and Water Technologies - Tom Ferguson // Managing Partner at Burnt Island Ventures | 25 Jul 2022 | 01:04:37 | |
This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only, you should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.
In episode 46 of the Investing in Impact podcast, I speak with Tom Ferguson, Managing Partner at Burnt Island Ventures, on the future of water investments and water technologies. Tom brings a decade of experience in water and startups to lead BIV. His start in water came as the lead author on the first CDP Water Disclosure Report in 2010, and he joined Imagine H2O in 2015 to build out the organization’s programming portfolio, which now encompasses 3 global programs vetting 500+ startups per year. Companies selected under Tom’s tenure have raised $600m+ and achieved 5 exits. He holds an MA from the University of Edinburgh, and an MBA from Harvard Business School. About Burnt Island Ventures Burnt Island Ventures is not a cleantech fund, because in cleantech water is a $900 billion afterthought. You can’t be good at water unless you only do water. Burnt Island Ventures funds the best entrepreneurs in water, worldwide. That’s it. This is a giant, esoteric, and foundational market for the entire global economy. We are at a turning point. From the wildfires of the Western US to flooding in Niger, climate change is here. Water resources across the world will be under increasing stress as the world warms. Products and services that allow individuals, governments and companies to navigate this change will see more and more demand. Entrepreneurs are emerging with the skill and insight to meet that demand, developing solutions to water problems at scale. Burnt Island Ventures exists to find, fund and support the best of these founders. ---------------------------------------- Thrive in the Impact Economy. Join 20k+. Subscribe to our weekly newsletter for the latest news, exclusive interviews, and curated products that drive the Impact Economy. Our mission is to highlight and celebrate the founders, creators, investors, and conscious brands shaping the future of conscious business and philanthropy.
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| Investing in Deep Tech to Power the Future of Nature and Regenerative Agriculture - Eric Archambeau // Co-Founder & Partner at Astanor Ventures | 06 Jul 2022 | 00:46:33 | |
This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only, you should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.
In episode 45 of the Investing in Impact podcast, I speak with Eric Archambeau, Co-Founder & Partner, at Astanor Ventures on investing in DeepTech to power the future of nature and regenerative agriculture. A global food enthusiast and not-for-profit activist, Astanor’s co-founder Eric has been supporting healthy food education and regenerative agriculture training for over a decade. The former Silicon Valley technology entrepreneur turned venture capitalist (App Annie, Betfair, Freenow, Onfido , Spotify, Xing) was Global Chairman of the Jamie Oliver Food Foundation and co-founded Quadia – a Geneva-based impact investing firm that offers private investors and family offices tailored strategies and portfolios that deliver social and environmental impact. Previously, he lectured at graduate business school INSEAD, where he founded the Social Entrepreneurship Department and was one of the co-founders of Social Impact International, a social entrepreneur accelerator program in India and Hawaii with a focus on sustainable agri-food programs. Eric’s ambition to revolutionise the food sector led him, with long-time business associate George Coelho, to launch Astanor Ventures in 2017 to invest in disruptive companies creating systemic change in the food and farming sectors while restoring the cultural dimension of food, ultimately inspiring people to cook meals that are sustainable, delicious, nourishing and that build a connection to nature. About Astanor Ventures Astanor is driven by a pressing urgency to combat climate change, biodiversity loss and improve the health of humanity and the planet. Sustainability and impact were part of the firm’s founding principles and remain an area they are committed to excel in. The mission as impact investors is to find, support and scale the most disruptive, impactful solutions to accelerate progress towards global sustainability targets. ---------------------------------------- Thrive in the Impact Economy. Join 20k+. Subscribe to our weekly newsletter for the latest news, exclusive interviews, and curated products that drive the Impact Economy. Our mission is to highlight and celebrate the founders, creators, investors, and conscious brands shaping the future of conscious business and philanthropy.
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| $239 million Fund Investing in Transformative Climate Startups - Amy Duffuor // General Partner of Azolla Ventures | 26 Aug 2024 | 00:35:37 | |
This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only, you should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.
In episode 76 the Investing in Impact podcast, I speak with Amy Duffuor, General Partner of Azolla Ventures, on combining catalytic capital with traditional venture capital to support climate tech companies. Takeaways
About Azolla Ventures Azolla Ventures partners with visionary founders to accelerate transformative climate solutions. Their mission is clear: to invest in breakthroughs that can avert catastrophic climate change and return our world to balance. By focusing on ventures at the earliest stages, where risk and reward are highest, Azolla Ventures prioritizes impact above all, ensuring that each investment holds the potential for large-scale greenhouse gas reductions and a more just climate for all. ---------------------------------------- Thrive in the Impact Economy. Join 20k+. Subscribe to our weekly newsletter for the latest news, exclusive interviews, and curated products that drive the Impact Economy. Our mission is to highlight and celebrate the founders, creators, investors, and conscious brands shaping the future of conscious business and philanthropy.
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| Developing Large Scale Ecosystem Regeneration Projects - Sheeba Sen // Co-founder of Hasten Ventures | 07 Jun 2022 | 00:29:15 | |
This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only, you should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.
In episode 44 of the Investing in Impact podcast, Causeartist contributor Rafael Aldon, speaks with Sheeba Sen, Co-founder of Hasten Ventures, on developing large scale ecosystem regeneration projects. Sheeba Sen is the co-founder of Hasten Ventures. Before Hasten Ventures, Sheeba was the Founder and CEO at Alaap, an organization working in Kumaon to bring back the native forests of the Himalayas through innovative community driven models. She’s studied Law at Oxford University and International Relations at LSE before working for Aarohi as an Executive Head. About Hasten Ventures At the heart of the projects is ecosystem restoration through regenerative forest, air, water, soil, food, and energy solutions using an integrated systems approach. The goal of Hasten Ventures is to build natural capital infrastructure to heal the planet while creating opportunities for economic development & social equity. Their goals include:
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| Current Trends in Impact Startups Across Europe and Africa - Jasiel Martin-Odoom // Senior Investment Associate at Unreasonable Collective | 17 May 2022 | 00:27:59 | |
This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only, you should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.
In episode 43 of the Investing in Impact podcast, I speak with Jasiel Martin-Odoom, Senior Investment Associate at Unreasonable Collective, on the current trends in impact startups across Europe and Africa. Jasiel began his career in investment banking at Goldman Sachs in London after gaining an MPA in Social Impact, Innovation and Investment from New York University. He covered broadly Global Business Services, and European Building, Construction & Distribution Companies. He joined the Unreasonable team in 2020 as the Portfolio Manager for UK & EMEA. As a Senior Investment Associate, Jasiel's particular passion for impact-focused VC investing led to him joining Unreasonable Collective's deal team that makes Series A and B impact investments into tech companies solving problems of Climate Change Management & Reporting, Built Environment, Mobility & Transportation; and Food & Agriculture. As part of Collective's 100% diverse core deal team, he is responsible for sourcing, screening, diligencing and contributing to investment decisions made by the team. He also leads the deal team's sourcing efforts in UK & EMEA leveraging his prior experience as Portfolio Manager. Over multi-year engagements, Unreasonable partners with family offices and foundations, help multinationals future-proof their strategy by grounding it in sustainable innovation, and we facilitate public-private partnerships with governments looking to sustainably reach their goals. Below are just a few of the initiatives we have co-founded alongside our institutional partners. About Unreasonable Collective Members of the Unreasonable Collective are connected to exclusive opportunities sourced directly from the Unreasonable Fellowship. The Fellowship currently includes 311 best-in-class companies that have raised more than $9.2 bn in financing, are headquartered in 50 countries, and are positively impacting the lives of more than 1.4 bn people. ---------------------------------------- Thrive in the Impact Economy. Join 20k+. Subscribe to our weekly newsletter for the latest news, exclusive interviews, and curated products that drive the Impact Economy. Our mission is to highlight and celebrate the founders, creators, investors, and conscious brands shaping the future of conscious business and philanthropy.
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| The Paradigm Shift That is Impact Investing - Alessa Berg // Founder and CEO of Top Tier Impact | 06 Apr 2022 | 00:37:12 | |
This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only, you should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.
In episode 42 of the Investing in Impact podcast, I speak with Alessa Berg, Founder and CEO of Top Tier Impact, on the future of carbon credits, ESG, web3 and its place in the paradigm shift of impact investing. Alessa is an entrepreneur, investor and advisor to funds and companies. Her thought leadership sits at the intersection of positive impact and emerging technologies. Alessa was born in Switzerland and is fluent in 6 languages. During high school, she started focusing on neuroscience while working as a windsurf and snowboard instructor on the side. Alessa created her first business at 11 years old and has been investing in the blockchain and biotech sectors since graduating from Oxford University. After covering product at early-stage technology startups, Alessa worked in private equity at Blackstone and in venture capital at Mosaic Ventures. She’s the youngest member of her Oxford degree’s advisory board. Alessa founded Top Tier Impact (TTI), the global ecosystem of impact and sustainability leaders. The TTI Group’s mission is to accelerate the mainstream adoption of impact and sustainability as the way of making investments and running companies. It has an active private network of 500+ impact investors, entrepreneurs and corporate leaders across more than 40 countries, an advisory business focused on ESG & climate risk scenario planning, an impact investing unit and a policy unit that bridges the gap between private and public sector within net-zero energy transition topics. ---------------------------------------- Thrive in the Impact Economy. Join 20k+. Subscribe to our weekly newsletter for the latest news, exclusive interviews, and curated products that drive the Impact Economy. Our mission is to highlight and celebrate the founders, creators, investors, and conscious brands shaping the future of conscious business and philanthropy.
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| The Future of Regenerative Business - Rafael Aldon // Impact Investor and Co-founder of regenr8 | 31 Mar 2022 | 00:52:28 | |
This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only, you should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.
In episode 41 of the Investing in Impact podcast, I speak with Rafael Aldon, Impact Investor and Co-founder of regenr8, on his journey into impact investing and the future of regenerative business. Rafael will be co-hosting upcoming episodes on the Investing in Impact podcast feed and the Disruptors for GOOD podcast feed. Rafael is a founder-focused Venture Capital professional with extensive experience in investment and startup growth strategies, including investments with advisory and Board positions in FinTech, InsurTech, DeepTech & SaaS companies, predominantly in S.E. Asia and Europe. Rafael is driven by a passion for nature and the transformative power of technology, and is a student of regenerative leadership. About regenr8 - regenr8 is pioneering regenerative venture capital approaches in Asia to invest globally in purpose-driven founders building highly-scalable technology companies that fit under the core themes of Energy & the Environment, Food & Water, Circularity & Zero Waste and Social Inclusion. The future of business is regenerative. Regenerative businesses are inspired by nature, in harmony with people and the planet and go beyond sustainable to actively address urgent global challenges such as biodiversity loss, climate change or inequality. They are on a mission and seek to collaborate across continents and cultures to support a global community of founders, investors, professionals and partners who share the vision to accelerate positive impact business models. regenr8 partners with a global network of Family Offices anchored by SE Asia families in key regional locations, proving the means for generational family wealth to create prosperity whilst supporting regenerative approaches that create abundance for future generations. ---------------------------------------- Thrive in the Impact Economy. Join 20k+. Subscribe to our weekly newsletter for the latest news, exclusive interviews, and curated products that drive the Impact Economy. Our mission is to highlight and celebrate the founders, creators, investors, and conscious brands shaping the future of conscious business and philanthropy.
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| Deploying Over a Billion Dollars in Capital to Address Income Inequality and Climate Change - Rekha Unnithan // Managing Director, Co-Head of Private Equity Impact Investing at Nuveen | 17 Mar 2022 | 00:26:26 | |
This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only, you should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.
In episode 40 of the Investing in Impact podcast, I speak with Rekha Unnithan, Managing Director and Co-Head of Private Equity Impact Investing at Nuveen, on deploying over a billion dollars in capital to address income inequality and climate change. Rekha is the Co-Head of Private Impact Investing. Rekha was an early visionary and established the intentional and leadership impact investing platform for TIAA, and is responsible for executing Nuveen’s private equity impact investing across Inclusive Growth and Resource Efficiency. Prior to joining Nuveen in 2012, she worked for Bank of America Merrill Lynch as a vice president in the Institutional Investment Group. She has also held various positions at Merrill Lynch in Institutional Investments, and Investment Oversight and Risk Management. Rekha graduated with a B.A. in Economics from Yale University and an M.B.A. with a specialization in Financial Instruments and Markets and Social Innovation and Impact from New York University’s Stern School of Business. She holds the CFA designation. Rekha is a board member of Aeris, a non-profit organization that helps investors make and monitor mission investments. Rekha is also on the Advisory Board of the Operating Principles for Impact Management and serves as the Chair of the Emerging Markets Private Equity Association’s Impact Council. Nuveen, a leading global investment manager with over $1.3 trillion of assets under management, recently announced the final close of the Nuveen Global Impact Fund, LP and affiliated entities (the “Fund”). The Fund, which is the first private equity impact fund raised by Nuveen, has secured a total of $218M from a diverse mix of global investors, with the aim of generating strong financial returns and addressing two of the greatest sustainable development challenges: climate change and inequality. Additional information about Nuveen’s first two deals out of the Nuveen Global Impact Fund can be found here: Annapurna and Advanced Battery Concepts. Nuveen made its first impact investment in the 1980s and has since invested over $500 million in direct and indirect private equity capital across over 200 portfolio companies in alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Today, Nuveen manages over $5.8 billion across all of its public and private markets impact investing strategies. ---------------------------------------- Thrive in the Impact Economy. Join 20k+. Subscribe to our weekly newsletter for the latest news, exclusive interviews, and curated products that drive the Impact Economy. Our mission is to highlight and celebrate the founders, creators, investors, and conscious brands shaping the future of conscious business and philanthropy.
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| The Journey to Build the Next Generation Mobile Trading Platform for Socially Conscious Investors - Will Peterffy // ESG Director at Interactive Brokers | 02 Mar 2022 | 00:43:40 | |
This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only, you should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.
In episode 39 of the Investing in Impact podcast, I speak with Will Peterffy, ESG Director at Interactive Brokers, on his life's journey of ecological discover and building the next generation mobile trading platform for socially conscious investors. Will is on a mission to arm millennials to gen Zs with tools to invest in the future and make “impact” in the world. From giving back to planting trees all based on personal values and cause.
A lifelong environmental advocate, Will has made it his mission to help humanity right its relationship with the earth. As ESG Director of Interactive Brokers, Will has led the development of IMPACT, a mobile trading platform for socially conscious investors. IMPACT solidifies Interactive Brokers’ commitment to sustainable practices.
Additionally, Will has built an organization called “One Small Planet” whose mission statement is to harmonize the wealth of people and planet through the deployment of vital capital. Will views the launch of the IMPACT app and One Small Planet as a manifestation of his life’s purpose.
With IMPACT, users select their personal investment criteria from 13 impact values and principles across a variety of categories including environmental sustainability, racial and gender equality, clean water, LGBTQ inclusion, and ethical and transparent business practices. Users can also exclude investments based on 10 categories including animal testing, corporate political spending and lobbying, and environmental pollution.
Based on their preferences, the IMPACT app identifies companies that correspond with the categories and provides impact scores on existing portfolios and holdings. The user may then choose to customize their portfolios to align with their values. ---------------------------------------- Thrive in the Impact Economy. Join 20k+. Subscribe to our weekly newsletter for the latest news, exclusive interviews, and curated products that drive the Impact Economy. Our mission is to highlight and celebrate the founders, creators, investors, and conscious brands shaping the future of conscious business and philanthropy.
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| Providing the World an Environmentally Friendly and Sustainable Currency for a Greener Future - George Coxon // Director of the Nano Foundation | 13 Feb 2022 | 00:45:13 | |
This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only, you should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.
In this episode 127 I speak with George Coxon, Director of the Nano Foundation, on Nano providing the world an environmentally friendly and sustainable currency for a greener future. George is Director of the Nano Foundation, Director of Appia and Advisor to the Global Blockchain Initiative. Nano is a digital, borderless currency, designed to bring financial inclusion to all and democratize the global economy. A degree in Evolutionary Anthropology amplified George’s fascination with social behaviors, giving her a wide understanding of the ways by which efficient, decentralized digital money can empower the underbanked by offering a sustainable and fair medium of exchange anywhere on the planet. George is clear that an economy that is open to all and empowers those that are marginalized, not only financially but also socially and politically, will be more robust and resilient. About Nano Nano was created to perform efficiently without the need for mining, an energy-intensive mechanism to process transactions. Instead, nano uses an innovative voting system where no mining is required. This efficient mechanism allows the nano network to use magnitudes less energy than other digital currencies, providing the world with an environmentally-friendly, and sustainable currency for a greener future. ---------------------------------------- Thrive in the Impact Economy. Join 20k+. Subscribe to our weekly newsletter for the latest news, exclusive interviews, and curated products that drive the Impact Economy. Our mission is to highlight and celebrate the founders, creators, investors, and conscious brands shaping the future of conscious business and philanthropy.
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| Building a Decentralized City for DAO Operators - Jon Hillis // Founding Member of Creator Cabins and CabinDAO | 02 Feb 2022 | 00:32:47 | |
This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only, you should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.
In this episode I speak with Jon Hillis, founding member of Creator Cabins and CabinDAO, on the vision of creating an embassy for DAOs, and building a decentralized city for DAO operators. Jon is currently building Creator Cabins, a community of cabins for independent online creators in the Texas Hill Country near Austin. Today, Cabin is a place to get together IRL(in real life) with your internet friends. In the future, the hope is that it becomes one node in a network of decentralized properties, owned and operated by small groups of independent online creators and entrepreneurs. Cabin is an experiment in the future of cities: decentralized physical nodes tied together by a shared culture, economy, and governance structure. The density of creative energy of San Francisco or New York, but wherever and whenever you want it to be. If you were designing a 21st century city from scratch, why would you put it all in one place? First step: building bridges and becoming an embassy. What is a decentralized city? Read more here: Tech stack for decentralized cities Jon is also creator of capital.community. If you are building for independent creators and online communities, he would love to help via capital.community. They sponsor the Creator Coop and the Creator Fellowship. Jon was the director of product for shoppers at Instacart, where he helped millions of people earn money independently online. Now he also lead the Carrot Angels syndicate to reinvest in the Instacart community. Listen to more Causeartist podcasts here. ---------------------------------------- Thrive in the Impact Economy. Join 20k+. Subscribe to our weekly newsletter for the latest news, exclusive interviews, and curated products that drive the Impact Economy. Our mission is to highlight and celebrate the founders, creators, investors, and conscious brands shaping the future of conscious business and philanthropy.
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| Democratizing Access to Essential Products and Services for Over 40 Million Low Income Households - Sandeep Farias // Founder & Managing Partner at Elevar Equity | 24 Jan 2022 | 00:45:23 | |
This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only, you should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.
In episode 38 of the Investing in Impact podcast, I speak with Sandeep Farias, Founder & Managing Partner at Elevar Equity, on democratizing access to essential products and services for over 40 million households and catalyzed billions of dollars of capital in 41 companies. Sandeep Farias is Founder & Managing Partner at Elevar Equity. He leads Elevar globally and is responsible for the firm’s strategy and organizational development, while engaging with entrepreneurs in India and Latin America to think through inflection points in their entrepreneurial journeys. Working with Elevar teams in India, United States and Mexico, he plays a key role across markets in determining the firm’s investment priorities, underwriting of new investment opportunities and portfolio management in India and Latin America, and fundraising. Sandeep has close to 25 years of work experience in diverse areas such as emerging markets investing, governance and regulation, organizational design, transactions and structuring, and corporate law. He founded Elevar in 2008, being passionately driven by working with early stage companies that foster economic development for low income communities; particularly in financial services including MSME finance and microfinance (where he played a leadership role in the sector’s transformation over a decade from the non-profit space to formal banking), affordable education, healthcare and agricultural services. Sandeep started his career in 1996 after completing an integrated law and arts degree from the National Law School of India University (NLS). Over the next eight years, he worked mostly on cross border transactions at two leading corporate law firms, Amarchand Mangaldas and Nishith Desai Associates (NDA), worked in house on Wipro’s NYSE listing, and taught at NLS. At NDA he led the corporate law team and founded the firm’s award winning social and development sector practice. Prior to founding Elevar, in 2004 he established Unitus in India and actively partnered with some of India’s leading microfinance institutions / banks, which were then in their formative years. About Elevar Equity Listen to more Causeartist podcasts here. ---------------------------------------- Thrive in the Impact Economy. Join 20k+. Subscribe to our weekly newsletter for the latest news, exclusive interviews, and curated products that drive the Impact Economy. Our mission is to highlight and celebrate the founders, creators, investors, and conscious brands shaping the future of conscious business and philanthropy.
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| Creating a Non-Predatory FinTech Startup for Underserved Communities in America - Rodney Williams // Co-Founder of SoLo Funds | 18 Jan 2022 | 00:35:11 | |
This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only, you should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.
🔥 40 Social Entrepreneurs to Watch for in 2022 🔥 - See the list here In this episode I speak with Rodney Williams, Co-founder of SoLo Funds, on building a non-predatory FinTech startup for underserved communities in America. Rodney has been recognized with numerous awards, including Ad Age’s 40 Under 40 in 2012; the Ernst & Young EDGE Award in 2013; Cannes Gold Lion award in 2015; Tech Entrepreneur of the Year by Black Enterprise, 2016; NAACP Inspiring Innovation list 2017; 25 Inspiring Entrepreneurs Under 40 by Entrepreneur Magazine 2016; Entrepreneur of the Year in Connected World Communications in the Ohio Valley Region by EY in 2017; Ebony’s Power 100 in 2018 and CNBC Disruptor 50 List in 2015, 2016, 2018 and 2019. Rodney attended West Virginia University, where he earned his BBA in finance, his BA in economics, and his MS in integrated marketing communications. Rodney also holds an MBA in finance & supply chain management from Howard University. He is a member of the 2019 Class of Henry Crown Fellows within the Aspen Global Leadership Network at the Aspen Institute. SoLo Funds is a mobile lending exchange that connects lenders and borrowers for the purpose of providing more affordable access to loans under $1,000. SoLo was created to disintermediate the predatory payday lending system. Today, SoLo is one of the fastest growing fintech companies in the country. SoLo’s story starts the way every SoLo request begins: with someone needing a hand. Co-founders Travis Holoway & Rodney Williams were noticing that family members, friends, and roommates were asking for financial help here and there, and they understood why. There weren’t any fair, reputable options for small, short-term loans. They decided to create one by harnessing the power of community. SoLo was formed in 2018 to create a viable, non-predatory option for moments when life happens. SoLo tap's into the power of community and generosity to form an online safety net that is mutually beneficial to all of its members. Travis and Rodney know that SoLo is needed because they needed it. Our loved ones needed it. And they know that SoLo makes a difference because nearly 80% of Americans live paycheck to paycheck. Today, SoLo is driven to new heights, but grounded in the same hope and mission: to build a community that enables financial autonomy for all. ---------------------------------------- Thrive in the Impact Economy. Join 20k+. Subscribe to our weekly newsletter for the latest news, exclusive interviews, and curated products that drive the Impact Economy. Our mission is to highlight and celebrate the founders, creators, investors, and conscious brands shaping the future of conscious business and philanthropy.
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