The socially responsible investing industry in Europe focuses on generating financial returns while promoting positive social and environmental impacts. Companies in this space include venture capital firms, private equity groups, and crowdfunding platforms, all committed to steering investments towards sustainable initiatives. In recent years, there has been a candid shift towards transparency and accountability, making it easier for investors to evaluate social impact. This evolving market thrives on innovation, with increasing interest from individual investors in ethical opportunities. The industry is poised for growth as ESG considerations gain prominence in investment decision-making processes across the continent.


In 2024, the list of top investors in socially responsible investing includes various entities such as corporate firms, venture capitalists, and private equity groups. Headquartered across multiple cities in Europe, such as London, Paris, and Stockholm, these investors range from small organizations with less than ten employees to large groups with over 10,000 staff. Founded between 1894 and 2017, the investors in our listing made a combined total of 458 investments, reflecting a robust commitment to social responsibility and environmental sustainability when allocating capital.


Top 16 Socially Responsible Investing Investors in Europe


1. Crowdcube

  • Website: crowdcube.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
  • Founded year: 2010
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 3
  • LinkedIn: crowdcube-limited

Crowdcube is a London-based crowdfunding platform founded in 2010 that enables businesses to raise capital through equity investments. It connects startups and SMEs with potential investors, facilitating the funding process. Crowdcube has been involved in several transactions that align with socially responsible investing, such as CIRCA5000, which raised over $1.4 million in June 2023 and focuses on ethical investment opportunities. They also supported The Big Exchange, which raised $405,814 in August 2021, aiming to create a more inclusive financial system. Other notable transactions include Goodvest, which raised €2 million, and GoParity, which raised over $3 million, both of which are involved in sustainable finance. Crowdcube emphasizes promoting diversity and inclusion within its workforce, further reinforcing its commitment to socially responsible practices.


2. Accenture

  • Website: accenture.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
  • Founded year: 2001
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 51
  • LinkedIn: accenture

Accenture is a global consulting firm based in Dublin, Ireland, specializing in information technology and management consulting services. Founded in 2001, the company has grown to employ over 10,000 professionals and operates across various industries, providing solutions that help businesses innovate and improve efficiency. In recent years, Accenture has made significant strides in the socially responsible investing space through strategic acquisitions. Notably, they acquired Carbon Intelligence, a consultancy focused on carbon and climate change strategies, to bolster their sustainability services and support businesses in achieving net zero emissions. Additionally, their investment in ESG Book, a platform that provides ESG data and insights, further underscores their commitment to integrating sustainability into their consulting practices. These transactions highlight Accenture's dedication to promoting responsible business practices and addressing climate change, aligning with the goals of socially responsible investing.


3. Bpifrance French Tech Accélération


Bpifrance French Tech Accélération is a venture capital investor based in Paris, Île-De-France, France, founded in 2015. As a public entity and financial institution, Bpifrance supports entrepreneurs and businesses both in France and internationally through a variety of services, including direct funding, export credit insurance, and private equity investments. The institution aims to foster entrepreneurship and innovation, helping businesses navigate growth and international expansion. Notably, Bpifrance has been involved in several transactions that reflect a commitment to socially responsible investing. For example, their investment in Lita.co, which raised over $12 million, focuses on responsible investment and sustainable finance. Additionally, their support for Gestia Solidaire, which raised funds through debt financing, highlights their engagement in social impact initiatives. These transactions demonstrate Bpifrance's alignment with socially responsible investing principles, making them a relevant player in this space.


4. European Investment Bank (EIB)


The European Investment Bank (EIB), founded in 1958 and based in Luxembourg, is a public entity that provides a range of financial services including loans, equity investments, guarantees, and advisory services. The EIB is dedicated to supporting sustainable projects that foster growth and job creation across various sectors. In recent transactions, the EIB has demonstrated its commitment to socially responsible investing by participating in significant funding rounds such as the $10 million in junior debt for Spark Energy Services, which aims to enhance energy services in developing regions. Additionally, the EIB's involvement in the Energiefonds Overijssel, which raised over $50 million in debt financing, further illustrates its focus on financing initiatives that promote sustainability and social impact. Through these investments, the EIB plays a crucial role in advancing projects that align with the goals of socially responsible investing.


5. European Innovation Council (EIC)


The European Innovation Council (EIC) is a public entity based in Brussels, Belgium, established to support innovation and entrepreneurship across Europe. Founded in 1958, the EIC offers various funding programs, including the EIC Accelerator and EIC Pathfinder, aimed at helping startups and SMEs develop and scale their technologies. The EIC provides not only financial support but also business acceleration services, networking opportunities, and prizes to foster innovation across different sectors. In recent transactions, the EIC has been involved in funding initiatives that align with socially responsible investing. For instance, Swisspod received a grant of $3,731,136 in September 2023, while CO2 Bioclean secured $2,609,330 in grants in October 2021, focusing on carbon capture technologies. Additionally, Materrup raised $2,513,080 in grants in June 2022, likely contributing to sustainable material innovations. These transactions highlight the EIC's commitment to supporting projects that have the potential to create positive social and environmental impacts.


6. BIO - the Belgian Investment Company for Developing Countries


BIO - the Belgian Investment Company for Developing Countries is a not-for-profit organization based in Brussels, Belgium, founded in 2001. It focuses on providing investment support and development financing to private sector companies in developing countries, aiming to empower these businesses to thrive and contribute to their local economies. In recent years, BIO has been involved in several significant transactions that reflect its commitment to sustainable development. For instance, in 2020, BIO provided debt financing of approximately $6 million to BIM, and earlier that year, it participated in a venture round raising nearly $4 million for the same company. Additionally, BIO has supported Berkeley Energy with debt financing of over $1 million in 2015 and a venture round of approximately $4.3 million in 2011. These investments highlight BIO's focus on fostering growth in sectors that can lead to sustainable development in emerging markets.


7. Head of Data Technology Office at Intesa Sanpaolo


The Head of Data Technology Office at Intesa Sanpaolo is part of a prominent banking and financial services provider based in Turin, Italy. Founded in 2007, Intesa Sanpaolo offers a wide range of financial products, including loans, investment management services, and accounts for both individual consumers and businesses. In 2024, the office was involved in 31 investments, demonstrating a robust engagement in the financial market. Notably, their transactions include significant debt financing for companies such as Low Carbon, which raised approximately $387 million, and Green Arrow Capital, which raised around $35 million. These transactions highlight the office's focus on supporting initiatives that contribute to sustainability and environmental responsibility, reinforcing their role in the socially responsible investing landscape.


8. Groupe Crédit Agricole

  • Website: credit-agricole.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Montrouge, Île-De-France, France
  • Founded year: 1894
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 18
  • LinkedIn: credit-agricole

Groupe Crédit Agricole is a cooperative banking group based in Montrouge, Île-De-France, France, founded in 1894. It provides a wide range of financial services, including banking, insurance, and investment management, with a focus on meeting the financial needs of individual consumers, businesses, and organizations. The group operates with a strong commitment to mutuality and social responsibility. Notably, Crédit Agricole has been involved in several transactions that reflect its dedication to socially responsible investing. For instance, it participated in funding rounds for MiiMOSA, which raised over $3.5 million to support sustainable agriculture initiatives, and Lab'Oikos, which raised approximately $2 million for projects promoting environmental sustainability. These investments highlight Crédit Agricole's focus on supporting ventures that align with social and environmental goals, reinforcing its role as a socially responsible investor.


9. InnoEnergy

  • Website: innoenergy.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Eindhoven, North Brabant, Netherlands
  • Founded year: 2010
  • Headcount: 201-500
  • Number of deals in 2024: 52
  • LinkedIn: innoenergy

EIT InnoEnergy is a not-for-profit organization founded in 2010, based in Eindhoven, North Brabant, Netherlands. It is dedicated to accelerating sustainable energy innovations and offers a marketplace for energy solutions, training programs, and support for innovators and corporates in the energy sector. InnoEnergy collaborates with various stakeholders to address the challenges of energy transition and sustainability. In 2024, they were involved in multiple transactions, including significant investments in Ecoligo, which focuses on providing solar energy solutions in emerging markets, and RVE.SOL, a Portuguese minigrid firm that aims to bring renewable power and clean water to communities in East Africa. These investments highlight InnoEnergy's commitment to fostering sustainable energy solutions and improving social outcomes, reinforcing their role as a socially responsible investor.


10. Proparco

  • Website: proparco.fr
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Paris, Île-De-France, France
  • Founded year: 1977
  • Headcount: 201-500
  • Number of deals in 2024: 19
  • LinkedIn: proparco

Proparco, founded in 1977 and based in Paris, Île-De-France, is a not-for-profit development finance institution dedicated to supporting economic growth in developing countries. With a focus on enhancing private sector contributions to sustainable development, Proparco provides financial tools, investment funds, and technical assistance to businesses and financial institutions. In 2024, Proparco was involved in 19 investments, including significant transactions such as a $12 million venture round for Maris Africa in June 2022, which aims to foster economic development in Africa. Additionally, they participated in a $5 million venture round for Equator in December 2024 and provided $10.88 million in debt financing to TUHF in July 2023. These investments reflect Proparco's commitment to sectors that promote sustainable development, including agriculture, health, and infrastructure, making them a key player in the socially responsible investing landscape.


11. Partners Group

  • Website: partnersgroup.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Baar, Zug, Switzerland
  • Founded year: 1996
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 19
  • LinkedIn: partners-group

Partners Group Holding AG is a prominent investment management firm based in Baar, Zug, Switzerland, specializing in private equity, private infrastructure, private real estate, and private debt. Founded in 1996, the firm manages over USD 149 billion in assets and offers a range of investment solutions to institutional investors, private banks, and individual investors. In recent transactions, Partners Group has acquired Empira, enhancing its exposure to real estate credit, which can include sustainable projects. They also invested in Citivale Group Holdings, a developer focused on logistics and light industrial assets, indicating a strategic interest in sectors that may align with sustainable development. Their acquisition of Gren for €710 million further showcases their active role in the investment landscape, emphasizing their innovative approach and commitment to sustainability.


12. Katapult

  • Website: katapult.vc
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Oslo, Oslo, Norway
  • Founded year: 2017
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 8
  • LinkedIn: katapult-accelerator

Katapult is an impact investment firm based in Oslo, Norway, founded in 2017. With a team size of 11-50, they focus on providing investment, accelerator programs, and mentorship to early-stage tech startups that are addressing significant global challenges. Their portfolio includes companies like Impact Mapper, which raised $150,000 in seed funding to enhance impact measurement, and RecyGlo, a waste management platform in Myanmar that received seed funding to improve recycling services. Additionally, they have invested in UMAMI Bioworks, a food tech startup that aims to develop sustainable seafood alternatives. Katapult's commitment to sectors like climate-tech and ocean-tech underscores their role as a socially responsible investor, dedicated to fostering innovation that contributes to a sustainable future.


13. EQT Group

  • Website: eqtgroup.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
  • Founded year: 1994
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 30
  • LinkedIn: eqt-partners

EQT Group is a prominent investment firm based in Stockholm, Sweden, specializing in private equity, infrastructure, real estate, growth equity, and venture capital. Founded in 1994, the firm serves institutional investors by providing expertise in managing diverse investment portfolios across multiple sectors and geographies. Notably, EQT has made significant strides in the renewable energy sector, acquiring a controlling stake in Tion Renewables AG, a German renewables company, for EUR 150 million. This acquisition reflects EQT's commitment to sustainable energy solutions. Additionally, EQT's acquisition of ju:niz Energy GmbH as part of its Transition Infrastructure strategy further emphasizes its focus on investing in environmentally responsible projects. These transactions highlight EQT's proactive approach to integrating sustainability into its investment strategy, making it a key player in the socially responsible investing landscape.


14. Deutsche Bank

  • Website: db.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Frankfurt, Hesse, Germany
  • Founded year: 1870
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 32
  • LinkedIn: deutsche-bank

Deutsche Bank AG, founded in 1870 and headquartered in Frankfurt, Hesse, Germany, is a prominent investment bank and financial services provider. With over 10,000 employees, the bank offers a wide range of solutions including investment banking, corporate banking, cash management, trade finance, and securities services. In 2024, Deutsche Bank was involved in 32 investments, showcasing its active role in the financial market. Notably, Deutsche Bank has participated in significant debt financing transactions that have implications for socially responsible investing. For example, they helped Grasshopper Solar raise over $210 million, supporting renewable energy initiatives. Additionally, they were involved in financing Adani New Industries, which focuses on solar module manufacturing, although this association has raised some concerns due to the Adani Group's controversial practices. Furthermore, Deutsche Bank's support for Redaptive, which raised $250 million, also aligns with sustainability efforts. These transactions highlight Deutsche Bank's engagement in sectors that contribute to environmental sustainability, although their overall investment strategy may include a mix of other industries.


15. EEP Africa

  • Website: eepafrica.org
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Helsinki, Uusimaa, Finland
  • Founded year: 2010
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • LinkedIn: eepafrica

EEP Africa is a not-for-profit organization based in Helsinki, Finland, founded in 2010. It is dedicated to clean energy financing, providing early-stage grants and support for innovative clean energy projects in Southern and Eastern Africa. The organization aims to enhance energy access and investment, collaborating with various funding partners to facilitate sustainable development in the region. Notably, EEP Africa has been involved in several significant transactions that reflect its commitment to socially responsible investing. For instance, it supported Microenergy Credits, which focuses on providing clean energy solutions, and Solar Sister, which empowers women entrepreneurs to deliver clean energy products. Other notable projects include Villageboom and Mukuru Clean Stoves, both of which aim to improve energy access and promote sustainable practices. Through these initiatives, EEP Africa plays a crucial role in fostering sustainable development and addressing energy challenges in Africa.


16. Almi

  • Website: almi.se
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
  • Founded year: 1994
  • Headcount: 201-500
  • Number of deals in 2024: 7
  • LinkedIn: almi-ab

Almi AB is a financial services company based in Stockholm, Sweden, founded in 1994. It specializes in providing loans, risk capital, and business development support to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Sweden. Almi aims to enhance the growth and competitiveness of these businesses by offering tailored financial solutions and guidance. In recent years, Almi has been involved in several transactions that reflect its commitment to supporting innovative and potentially socially responsible businesses. For instance, they participated in the seed funding rounds for Tini Garments and Stockrepublic, both of which are likely to be focused on sustainable practices and social impact. Additionally, their investment in Bower, which raised $1,030,000 in a pre-seed round, suggests a focus on companies that may contribute positively to environmental sustainability. These transactions indicate that Almi is actively engaging with businesses that could align with socially responsible investing principles.



Socially Responsible Investing Insights: Key Investors in Europe


InvestorHeadquarterSizeFoundedDeals 2024
CrowdcubeLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)51-20020103
AccentureDublin, Dublin, Ireland10001+200151
Bpifrance French Tech AccélérationParis, Île-De-France, France1-102015198
European Investment Bank (EIB)Luxembourg1001-5000195899
European Innovation Council (EIC)Brussels, Brussels, Belgium201-500195857
BIO - the Belgian Investment Company for Developing CountriesBrussels, Brussels, Belgium51-20020014
Head of Data Technology Office at Intesa SanpaoloTurin, Piedmont, Italy10001+200731
Groupe Crédit AgricoleMontrouge, Île-De-France, France10001+189418
InnoEnergyEindhoven, North Brabant, Netherlands201-500201052
ProparcoParis, Île-De-France, France201-500197719
Partners GroupBaar, Zug, Switzerland1001-5000199619
KatapultOslo, Oslo, Norway11-5020178
EQT GroupStockholm, Stockholm, Sweden1001-5000199430
Deutsche BankFrankfurt, Hesse, Germany10001+187032
EEP AfricaHelsinki, Uusimaa, Finland11-5020100
AlmiStockholm, Stockholm, Sweden201-50019947


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