When Obvious Ventures launched 12 years ago with a focus on "world positive" companies, the idea was a contrarian bet: that startups tackling climate, health, and economic resilience could deliver big returns, not just feel-good impact. Founded by Twitter cofounder Ev Williams and others, the firm backed companies like Beyond Meat, the AI drug discovery company Recursion Pharmaceuticals, and Diamond Foundry, which makes sustainable lab-grown diamonds.
"When someone says they are a B Corp, or even going through the process, I understand they really mean it," she said. "It's not easy, and the framework gives businesses structure and purpose. If you measure your business purely on profit, you are missing the point."
Mirova, the French climate-focused investment firm backed by Kering and other corporate heavyweights, has invested $30.5 million (€26.4 million) in Indian climate tech startup Varaha. This investment will help to expand the startup's regenerative farming program, supporting hundreds of thousands of smallholder farmers in northern India. The deal marks Mirova's first carbon investment in India, but its structure is unusual. Rather than taking equity, the Paris-based firm is investing cash, and will get a share of the carbon credits generated in return over time.
Why Now? Nonprofit and grassroots leaders are under unprecedented pressure-shrinking funding, growing skepticism, political scrutiny-while broken systems slow real change. Causeway is designed for this moment: radical transparency, shared leadership, and accountable capital, bridging the gap between finance and frontline change. Together, we will: ✅ Confront systemic barriers ✅ Share real-world success stories ✅ Launch Causeway as a tool for action ✅ Build momentum for a new era of participatory impact investing
