Logo

Investors Circle

Legacy impact investing network connecting values‑aligned investors with early-stage impact ventures.

Apply

Description

Investors' Circle (IC) is the world's oldest and largest impact investing network, dedicated to connecting angels, venture capitalists, foundations, and family offices with early-stage entrepreneurs who generate both financial returns and positive social/environmental impact. 
  • Early Stage: The network focuses on early-stage companies, specifically within the seed and Series A stages.
  • Maturity: They look for innovative startups dedicated to improving the environment, education, health, and community.
  • Focus: In 2026, there is a strong emphasis on cleantech solutions, with approximately 50% of recent investments in that sector. 
  • Method: Founders can engage through the Investors Circle website to find information on the application process, which typically involves submitting a business plan for review.
  • Materials: Submissions generally include a pitch deck and summary highlighting both the business model and the social/environmental impact.
  • Venture Fairs: IC conducts monthly virtual and in-person "Venture Fairs" or "Forum" events where selected entrepreneurs present their ideas to the network. 

Eligibility

  • Impact Alignment: Companies must be mission-driven, with a core focus on addressing social or environmental challenges for the common good.
  • Sectors: Broadly includes sustainable consumer products, energy/environment (cleantech), healthcare, education, and software.
  • Geography: Primarily US-based companies, with headquarters in San Francisco and Durham, NC, and chapters in cities across the country.

Process

  1. Screening: Proposals are vetted by a selection committee of members and staff.
  2. Presentation: Top companies are invited to present at a monthly Venture Fair to the full membership.
  3. Due Diligence: Interested investors collaboratively conduct a thorough review of the business, technology, and impact claims.
  4. Individual Investment: Members make individual investment decisions, sometimes pooling capital through special purpose vehicles.
  5. Post-Investment: Members often provide mentorship and connect founders to their extensive network of partners and follow-on investors. 

What an Applicant can Obtain

  • Strategic Capital: Access to a network that has channeled over $275 million into impactful enterprises, leveraging a community that helps attract significant follow-on capital.
  • Expert Mentorship: Guidance from a diverse community of experienced angel investors, VCs, and entrepreneurs.
  • Impact Validation: Credibility from being vetted and funded by a leading impact investing network.
  • Global Exposure: Potential to gain national and international exposure through various events and partner networks.