Big Path Capital is advancing a sustainable economy by connecting mission-driven companies and fund managers with mission-aligned investors. Join us on the journey to a better future that benefits everyone and the long term by signing up to receive our newsletter as well as announcements on our convenings and the latest news. Below is our latest issue. To receive the next newsletter directly in your inbox, sign up to join our online community here.
A Note From the Big Path Capital Team
The destruction from Hurricane Helene has hit home for many friends, clients, fellow B Corps, and two of our own team members located in Asheville, NC. This area was thought to be a haven from the growing climate crisis. Helene’s destruction underscores the urgency of the situation and that we are all in this together. Contributions can go a long way to helping those in need. Here are some ways you can support these communities if you are in a position to do so:
BeLoved Asheville is deeply committed to supporting the Asheville community during this time of crisis. In response to the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene, they are dedicating all of their resources to providing essential aid to those affected to distribute much-needed food, clothing, and shelter to those in need.
There are 15 B Corps in this region, and many of them are small businesses that will go months without revenue, need to rebuild, restock, and so much more. B Local Asheville + WNC created a Small Business Relief Fund for those who would like to support our fellow B Corps and beyond.
St. James Episcopal Church in Black Mountain, NC is at ground zero. The church was unscathed but the devastation in the community is staggering. The church is accepting contributions to The Helene Relief Fund — 100% of funds go to relief efforts. The Fund is focused on needs not met by insurance and FEMA. Funds are dispersed without regard to faith, orientation, or immigration status.
Thank you for your consideration and care,
The Team at Big Path Capital
Climate Tech, Diversity, and Education: A Look at the Expanding Landscape of Impact Investing
No longer a niche option, investments that aim to shape a better future for people and the planet are moving into the mainstream — and creating financial returns. The growing amount of capital going toward projects focused on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) impact reflects current global challenges and related business opportunities that can help shape a more resilient, inclusive economy. In this article, Big Path Capital’s J.D. Dell discusses opportunities and challenges in the growing impact investing landscape. Read more.
What We’re Tracking
Frontline Advocates Call on B Corps to Partner on Climate Justice | From large, organized events like Climate Week NYC to local meetings of community organizations, frontline and grassroots communities are leading the charge for climate justice and climate action. At Champions Retreat 2024, young climate advocates called on B Corps to step forward as equitable partners and allies in the climate justice movement and help end transactional and harmful business practices. Read more.
In a World Facing Climate and Equity Crises, Impact Investing Is Gaining Momentum | More funders are supporting efforts that aim to effect meaningful change that benefits society and the environment. With a value around $1 trillion, the private impact investing market is expanding in areas like education, health care, and renewable energy. Read more.
It’s Time to Unbundle ESG |With ESG advocates on the defensive, business leaders can adopt a new roadmap to determine which factors to incorporate into their business strategies and operations — and their political advocacy — and how they will communicate this to their stakeholders. Read more.
25 Climate Tech Startups to Watch in 2024 | This list from Trellis (formerly GreenBiz) highlights some early-stage startups that are innovating toward net zero in land use, energy, transport, buildings, and industry. The article notes that the new climate technologies are critically needed — and proving resilient to a recent funding slowdown. Climate startups raised $3.4 billion, or 4.8 percent of all VC fundraising, in the first half of 2024. Read more.
Team Highlights
Michael Whelchel Joins Climate Week NYC
Big Path Capital Founder & CEO Michael Whelchel was excited to participate in Climate Week NYC. Kicking off the critical week-long event, Big Path partnered with Ethic to co-host a discussion with Climate First Bank & Topo Finance about the carbon footprint of banking. The conversation explored how traditional banks may use deposits to loan to fossil-fuel-intensive companies. Panelists, including Michael, offered advice on how to enhance the impact of cash in the real economy.
Michael also visited the NYSE with Climate First Bank’s CEO Kenneth LaRoe (pictured here with Cindy LaRoe). We were thrilled to be part of the conversation and action to repair our world and secure a resilient planet Earth for generations to come.
Voter Participation Toolkit for Employers
With just over five weeks until election day, we’re pleased to share this Voter Participation Toolkit for Employers. Created by Big Path COO Adrianne Gordon in collaboration with the BLD Southeast team, this resource offers ready-to-use language and graphics to encourage employee voter turnout. In addition, the toolkit offers a three-step guide to help employees get involved. Learn more and download the free toolkit here.
MO Top 100 Applications Open Through December 15, 2024
Applications are now open to join the MO 100 Top Impact CEO Ranking 2025! The ranking celebrates the top executives catalyzing positive environmental and social impact through the high-growth companies they lead. The list reflects the growing relevance of leaders who prioritize a broader set of stakeholders—including the environment, their employees, their customers, their shareholders, and their communities. The top impact CEOs will be celebrated at the 2025 MO CEO Summit in Asheville, NC on April 22, 2025. Know someone who should be nominated? Learn more and download the free toolkit here.