Applying an impact lens when building a startup, whereby you consider how the business can help address a social or environmental problem, can be a tremendous source of commercial value. Customer retention is a great example of this. Here are three ways that impact could enhance retention. Values alignment There are numerous…

As Eka Ventures announces the close of its fund, we are delighted to share background on why we invested earlier this year. Our mission is to grow the social investment market to improve people’s lives in the UK. One of the ways we do this is through our venture investments…

As Balderton Capital announces the close of its growth stage fund, we are delighted to share background on why we invested. Venture capital plays a significant role in shaping society; funding startups and backing early stage and emerging companies that can drive technological change and better meet people’s needs. We…

In this blog, part of our ‘Impact as a source of value’ series, we explore the topic of risk. From avoiding regulatory action to preventing disappointing IPOs, here’s how taking an impact lens to building a startup helps avoid risks. Building a startup is risky business. From product, to people…

Last week, we held our second roundtable with Limited Partners who have a focus in venture investing to discuss best practice when assessing managers for impact. …

In this blog series, we explore how impact can be a source of value to startups and startup investors. From boosting performance to reducing risk, we’ll showcase the latest thinking and evidence to support incorporating an impact lens in building a business and startup investing. As part of our work…

In February 2021, Big Society Capital and Mountside Ventures co-hosted a virtual ‘LPs in Venture — Impact Roundtable’, which brought together institutional investors from the UK, US and Europe to share insights and approaches to impact investing in venture. Mountside Ventures, who are helping promote the flow of venture capital…

As Ascension Ventures announces its £5 million fundraise extension to Fair By Design’s existing £10 million Fund, we are delighted to share background on why we invested in this extension, having first established the Fund with the Joseph Rowntree Foundation in 2017. Through our venture investments, we are supporting an…

One of the key drivers of how much social impact a startup will create, is how well impact is managed by the startup (often called impact practice). Impact practice also tends to drive organisational performance more broadly. As this is an emerging area, we often get asked what good looks…