The e-waste recycling industry in the US focuses on reclaiming valuable materials from discarded electronics, such as metals and plastics. Companies range from large corporations to specialized startups, offering services like recycling, refurbishment, and component recovery. The industry is rapidly evolving, driven by increasing environmental awareness and regulatory pressure to manage electronic waste responsibly. Innovative technologies and processes are emerging to improve efficiency and sustainability. As consumer electronics continue to proliferate, the demand for e-waste recycling solutions is set to rise significantly, highlighting economic opportunities alongside environmental imperatives in this crucial sector.


This list includes a mix of corporate, venture capital, and private equity investors headquartered across various cities in the US, including New York and San Francisco. Ranging from small teams to large organizations, their experience spans decades, with some founded as early as 1947. Notably, they were active investors in 2024, collectively engaging in over 1,200 deals. Their participation marks a growing commitment to funding breakthroughs in the e-waste recycling sector, showcasing diverse approaches and strategies to promote sustainability and efficiency.


Top 17 E-Waste Recycling Investors in the US


1. U.S. Department of Energy (DOE)

  • Website: energy.gov
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Washington, D.C., District Of Columbia, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1977
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 597
  • LinkedIn: u-s--department-of-energy

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) is a public entity established in 1977, located in Washington, D.C. It oversees national energy policy, energy production, and nuclear power research, serving various stakeholders including government entities and the public. The DOE provides guidance on energy efficiency, funding opportunities, and conducts research to address energy challenges. In recent years, the DOE has been involved in significant transactions that support the e-waste recycling sector. For instance, it provided a $2 million grant to Gopher Resource, which specializes in battery recycling, and has facilitated substantial debt financing for Li-Cycle, which focuses on lithium-ion battery recycling, raising over $700 million in 2023 and 2024. Additionally, the DOE supported Redwood Materials with $2 billion in debt financing, a company that recycles materials from batteries and electronics. Cirba Solutions also received a $7.4 million grant from the DOE, further emphasizing its commitment to e-waste recycling initiatives.


2. Sosv

  • Website: sosv.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1995
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 170
  • LinkedIn: sosv

Sosv is a venture capital firm founded in 1995, based in the United States, that specializes in funding and supporting deep tech startups through its development programs. With a focus on sectors such as health and climate technology, Sosv operates globally to connect innovative companies with investors. In 2024 alone, Sosv has made 170 investments, showcasing its active role in the venture capital landscape. Among its notable transactions, Sosv invested in Octopus, a company that has created a circular economy platform in Indonesia, which not only sells waste materials to the recycling industry but also collects data for fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) brands. This investment highlights Sosv's engagement in initiatives that promote recycling and sustainability, making it a relevant investor in the e-waste recycling context. Additionally, their investment in Biometallica, which is likely involved in recycling or resource recovery, further supports their relevance in this sector.


3. Closed Loop Partners

  • Website: closedlooppartners.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2014
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 8
  • LinkedIn: closed-loop-fund

Closed Loop Partners is an investment firm based in New York, founded in 2014, that specializes in building the circular economy through investment management services, venture capital, and private equity. They operate the largest privately held recycling company in North America, catering to businesses and organizations aiming to implement sustainable practices and reduce waste. Their investment strategy is aligned with resource efficiency and sustainability. Notably, they have been involved in significant transactions such as the funding rounds for Solarcycle, which raised $6.6 million in a seed round in June 2022 and $30 million in a Series A funding round in March 2023, focusing on recycling solar panels. This involvement highlights their commitment to the recycling sector, including e-waste. Additionally, their investment in MOLG, which raised $5.5 million in a seed round in October 2024, indicates their ongoing support for innovative recycling solutions.


4. FJ Labs

  • Website: fjlabs.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2015
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 169
  • LinkedIn: fj-labs

FJ Labs is a venture capital firm based in New York, specializing in marketplace and network effect businesses. Founded in 2015, the firm has made over 1,000 investments, with many companies achieving unicorn status. Notably, FJ Labs has invested in RoadRunner Recycling, participating in multiple funding rounds including a $70M Series D in January 2022, a $28.6M Series C in March 2020, and an $8.8M Series B in March 2017. These investments are aimed at expanding RoadRunner's operations and technology in the e-waste recycling sector. Additionally, FJ Labs has invested in Schrott24, a company focused on recycling, further demonstrating their engagement in the e-waste recycling industry. Their portfolio reflects a diverse range of industries, but their specific investments in e-waste recycling companies highlight their relevance in this field.


5. Y Combinator

  • Website: ycombinator.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2005
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 802
  • LinkedIn: y-combinator

Y Combinator is a prominent startup accelerator and venture capital firm based in San Francisco, California, founded in 2005. It provides funding and mentorship to early-stage technology companies, helping entrepreneurs launch and grow their businesses through structured programs and resources. Y Combinator has successfully launched over 4,000 startups, making it a key player in the technology startup ecosystem. Notably, they have invested in Circular, which raised $7.6 million in a Seed Round in October 2023, focusing on e-waste solutions. Additionally, they have supported Birch Biosciences, which raised funds in the Seed Round and a grant, indicating their interest in innovative technologies that may contribute to sustainability and recycling efforts. These transactions highlight Y Combinator's engagement with companies that have the potential to impact the e-waste recycling industry.


6. 500 Global

  • Website: 500.co
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2010
  • Headcount: 201-500
  • Number of deals in 2024: 98
  • LinkedIn: 500-startups

500 Global is a venture capital firm and startup accelerator based in San Francisco, California, founded in 2010. The firm specializes in investing in early-stage technology companies, providing funding, mentorship, and resources to help founders scale their businesses. In 2024, 500 Global has made 98 investments, showcasing their active role in the venture capital landscape. Notably, they have invested in companies like Whole Surplus, which has raised funds in multiple rounds (2017, 2019, and 2021) and focuses on surplus management, potentially contributing to waste reduction and sustainability efforts. Additionally, their investment in Revivn, a company that deals with the refurbishment and resale of used electronics, further aligns with the principles of e-waste recycling. These transactions highlight 500 Global's engagement with companies that have a direct or indirect impact on e-waste management and sustainability.


7. Los Angeles Cleantech Incubator


The Los Angeles Cleantech Incubator (LACI) is a not-for-profit organization founded in 2011, based in Los Angeles, California. LACI is dedicated to fostering an inclusive green economy by supporting cleantech startups through various programs, including business acceleration and funding opportunities. They focus on sustainable technologies and practices, which includes initiatives in the recycling sector. Notably, LACI has made investments in companies such as Homeboy Recycling, which focuses on recycling efforts, and Lasso Loop Recycling, which raised $50,000 in a Pre-Seed round in 2023. These transactions highlight LACI's commitment to supporting businesses that contribute to e-waste recycling and sustainable practices, making them a relevant player in this field.


8. Breakthrough Energy


Breakthrough Energy is a not-for-profit organization founded in 2015, based in Kirkland, Washington, dedicated to accelerating the transition to a net-zero economy. They support innovative technologies and advocate for policies that promote clean energy solutions. Their investment portfolio includes significant transactions in the e-waste recycling context, notably with Redwood Materials, which raised $700 million in a Series C round to expand its battery recycling operations. This investment underscores Breakthrough Energy's focus on sustainable practices and innovative recycling technologies. Additionally, they have invested in Mill and Circ, companies that are also engaged in sustainability efforts, further demonstrating their commitment to supporting the clean energy sector and addressing the challenges of e-waste.


9. LyondellBasell

  • Website: lyondellbasell.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Houston, Texas, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2007
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 5
  • LinkedIn: lyondell-basell

LyondellBasell Industries N.V. is a prominent chemical manufacturer based in Houston, Texas, specializing in the production of basic chemicals and polymers for various industries, including automotive and packaging. Founded in 2007, the company has a global presence and is dedicated to advancing sustainable technologies. In recent years, LyondellBasell has made significant strides in the recycling sector, acquiring a 50 percent stake in Stiphout Industries B.V., a Dutch plastics recycler, and a 50% stake in De Paauw Sustainable Resources, which focuses on sustainable resource management. Additionally, they have invested in Source One GmbH, a company that sources plastic waste, further emphasizing their commitment to recycling and sustainability. These transactions highlight LyondellBasell's strategic focus on enhancing their operations through innovative recycling solutions, positioning them as a relevant investor in the e-waste recycling industry.


10. Kkr

  • Website: kkr.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1976
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 74
  • LinkedIn: kkr

KKR & Co. Inc. is a prominent investment firm based in New York, specializing in private equity, credit, infrastructure, and real estate. Founded in 1976, KKR has established itself as a global leader in asset management, providing tailored solutions to institutional and individual investors. Among its notable transactions, KKR acquired Viridor, a leading waste management company, for over $5.4 billion in 2020, and Der Grüne Punkt, a pioneer in recycling and waste management, in 2004. These investments highlight KKR's commitment to sectors that promote sustainability and effective waste management, including e-waste recycling. Additionally, KKR's involvement in ECORBIT and Trilogy MedWaste further demonstrates its engagement in the broader waste management landscape, which is crucial for addressing the challenges of e-waste.


11. Fifth Wall

  • Website: fifthwall.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2016
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 15
  • LinkedIn: fifth-wall-ventures

Fifth Wall is a venture capital firm based in New York, specializing in technology investments for the real estate industry. Founded in 2016, the firm focuses on funding innovative technology companies that tackle critical issues such as climate change and infrastructure challenges. Fifth Wall's clients include major corporations seeking strategic insights and access to cutting-edge solutions to enhance their operations. Notably, Fifth Wall has made significant investments in the recycling sector, including a leading role in the Series D extension round for RoadRunner Recycling, which aims to expand its technology-driven waste management solutions. Additionally, they participated in the Series A funding for Solarcycle, a company dedicated to recycling solar panels, and have also invested in Cyclic Materials, which specializes in advanced metals recycling. These transactions highlight Fifth Wall's commitment to supporting sustainable practices and technologies that contribute to environmental conservation.


12. Summer Street Capital Partners


Summer Street Capital Partners is a private equity firm based in Buffalo, New York, founded in 1999. The firm specializes in providing equity capital and operational support to businesses in the environmental services and niche manufacturing sectors. They focus on facilitating growth through buyouts, recapitalizations, and strategic investments, with an emphasis on enhancing organizational development and customer satisfaction. Notable transactions include the acquisition of Apple Valley Waste, a solid waste collection and recycling services provider, and investments in Oakridge Waste & Recycling and Coastal Waste and Recycling, which highlight their commitment to the environmental services sector. These transactions reflect their strategy of investing in companies that contribute to waste management and recycling, making them a relevant player in the e-waste recycling landscape.


13. Legg Mason (Acquired by Franklin Templeton)

  • Website: franklintempleton.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: San Mateo, California, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1947
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 15
  • LinkedIn: leggmason

Legg Mason, now acquired by Franklin Templeton, is an investment management firm based in San Mateo, California, founded in 1947. The firm provides a range of financial services, including portfolio management and market analysis, catering to both individual and institutional investors. In recent years, Legg Mason has been involved in significant transactions within the e-waste recycling sector. They participated in a $315 million post-IPO equity round for Li-Cycle, a company focused on lithium-ion battery recycling. Additionally, they invested in Redwood Materials, which raised $700 million to expand its battery recycling operations, and RoadRunner Recycling, which secured $28.6 million in a Series C funding round. These investments highlight Legg Mason's commitment to supporting innovative solutions in the recycling of electronic waste and sustainable materials management.


14. Closed Loop Foundation


Closed Loop Foundation is an investment firm based in New York, founded in 2014, that specializes in advancing the circular economy through venture capital, growth equity, and buyout strategies. They focus on companies innovating in sustainability and provide funding for projects that reduce waste and promote recycling. Notable transactions include a $9.9 million venture round for Eureka Recycling, which is involved in recycling operations, and a $2 million debt financing for First Star Recycling, which also operates in the recycling sector. These investments highlight their commitment to supporting companies that contribute to recycling efforts, including those related to e-waste.


15. Amazon

  • Website: amazon.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Seattle, Washington, United States (USA)
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 37
  • LinkedIn: amazon

Amazon.com, Inc. is a multinational technology company based in Seattle, Washington, primarily known for its e-commerce platform. Founded in 1994, Amazon has expanded its operations to include cloud computing, online advertising, digital streaming, and artificial intelligence services. In recent years, Amazon has also made significant investments in sustainability and e-waste recycling. Notably, they participated in a Series B funding round for Redwood Materials, which raised $40 million to focus on recycling lithium-ion batteries and electronic waste. Additionally, Amazon has provided grants to Circu Li-ion S.A. and Hipli, both of which are involved in sustainable practices and recycling initiatives. These investments reflect Amazon's commitment to addressing e-waste challenges and promoting a circular economy.


16. Advantage Capital


Advantage Capital is a venture capital firm based in New Orleans, Louisiana, founded in 1992. The firm specializes in providing equity and debt financing to small businesses, with a focus on supporting entrepreneurs in underserved communities. Their investment strategy includes flexible capital solutions aimed at helping businesses grow and thrive. Notably, Advantage Capital has been involved in significant transactions within the recycling industry, including multiple investments in City Carting & Recycling, which raised funds through both debt financing and Series A rounds. Additionally, they have invested in Advanced Enviro Systems, further demonstrating their commitment to the recycling sector. These transactions highlight Advantage Capital's role in promoting sustainable practices through financial support for companies engaged in recycling operations.


17. IFC - International Finance Corporation

  • Website: ifc.org
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Washington, D.C., District Of Columbia, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1956
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 107
  • LinkedIn: ifclinkedin

The International Finance Corporation (IFC) is a not-for-profit organization established in 1956, focused on fostering private sector development in emerging markets. Based in Washington, D.C., IFC provides investment, advisory, and asset management services to businesses and financial institutions, helping them access capital and expertise to promote economic growth. IFC operates in over 100 countries, addressing poverty and promoting sustainable development. Notably, IFC has made significant investments in the e-waste recycling sector, including a $290 million equity private placement in Elemental Holding SA, which is developing a recycling and refining facility for e-waste concentrate. Additionally, IFC has supported Aihuishou, a prominent player in the e-waste recycling industry, through multiple funding rounds, including a $60 million Series C investment in 2015 and an $8 million Series B investment in 2014. These transactions highlight IFC's commitment to sustainable practices and its role in advancing the e-waste recycling industry.



E-Waste Recycling Insights: Key Investors in the US


InvestorHeadquarterSizeFoundedDeals 2024
U.S. Department of Energy (DOE)Washington, D.C., District Of Columbia, United States (USA)10001+1977597
SosvUnited States (USA)51-2001995170
Closed Loop PartnersNew York, New York, United States (USA)11-5020148
FJ LabsNew York, New York, United States (USA)11-502015169
Y CombinatorSan Francisco, California, United States (USA)51-2002005802
500 GlobalSan Francisco, California, United States (USA)201-500201098
Los Angeles Cleantech IncubatorLos Angeles, California, United States (USA)51-20020112
Breakthrough EnergyKirkland, Washington, United States (USA)51-200201538
LyondellBasellHouston, Texas, United States (USA)10001+20075
KkrNew York, New York, United States (USA)1001-5000197674
Fifth WallNew York, New York, United States (USA)51-200201615
Summer Street Capital PartnersBuffalo, New York, United States (USA)11-5019990
Legg Mason (Acquired by Franklin Templeton)San Mateo, California, United States (USA)1001-5000194715
Closed Loop FoundationNew York, New York, United States (USA)1-1020140
AmazonSeattle, Washington, United States (USA)10001+37
Advantage CapitalNew Orleans, Louisiana, United States (USA)51-20019925
IFC - International Finance CorporationWashington, D.C., District Of Columbia, United States (USA)1001-50001956107


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