The international development industry in the US focuses on solving global challenges like poverty, education, and health care through investments and innovative solutions. Companies range from venture capitalists and impact investors to large non-profits and government entities, all aiming to create positive change. This sector has seen a shift toward integrating technology into development efforts, exemplified by the rising use of AI in social impact projects. Additionally, with a growing emphasis on sustainability, investors are increasingly funding initiatives that prioritize environmental resilience, signaling a promising future for transformational development recognized for its social impact and economic potential.


This article explores 18 notable international development investors in the US, covering various types such as venture capital, corporate, and private equity firms. The investors listed range from established firms like Citi and Google, to smaller entities like Sahsen Ventures, illustrating the array of players participating in this sector. Founding years vary, showing a mix of seasoned investors and new entrants, while deal counts in 2024 underline their active involvement. Headquartered in key US cities, these firms are making substantial contributions toward international development initiatives around the world.


Top 18 International Development Investors in the US


1. Government of Canada

  • Website: canada.ca
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Canada, Kentucky, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1999
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 137
  • LinkedIn: government-of-canada

The Government of Canada is a public entity that provides a wide range of services and information to Canadian citizens and residents, addressing various needs including employment, immigration, health care, and taxation. It operates through multiple departments and agencies to ensure access to essential services and support for individuals and businesses across the country. In recent years, the Government of Canada has engaged in several significant transactions that reflect its involvement in development initiatives. For instance, it provided a substantial grant of $46,500,000 to the Canadian Colleges for a Resilient Recovery in February 2023, aimed at enhancing educational resilience. Additionally, it supported the Makivik Corporation with a grant of $45,000,000 in November 2024, which likely contributes to community development in the northern regions of Canada. Other transactions include grants to organizations like CDEM and Elephant Thoughts, which further illustrate its commitment to fostering development and recovery in various sectors.


2. Citi

  • Website: citigroup.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1812
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 107
  • LinkedIn: citi

Citigroup Inc., commonly known as Citi, is a prominent financial services company based in New York, New York, founded in 1812. It offers a comprehensive range of banking and investment services to individuals and businesses, including commercial banking, investment banking, and wealth management. In 2024, Citi has been particularly active in the international development sector, having participated in several significant grant transactions. Notably, on September 24, 2024, Citi facilitated grants of $500,000 each to organizations such as TECHO-U.S, Eurasia Foundation, Human Initiative, Bangkok Community Help Foundation, and Habitat Association. These transactions reflect Citi's commitment to supporting initiatives that promote social welfare and community development, aligning with the objectives of international development.


3. 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 specializes in providing funding and mentorship to early-stage technology companies through a structured program that includes resources like the Startup School and co-founder matching services. Over the years, Y Combinator has successfully launched more than 4,000 startups, establishing itself as a key player in the technology startup ecosystem. Among its notable transactions, Y Combinator has invested in organizations such as New Story Charity, which focuses on innovative housing solutions for impoverished communities, and Our World In Data, which provides accessible data on global development issues. These investments reflect Y Combinator's engagement with initiatives that contribute to social good and international development, alongside its primary focus on technology.


4. Truist

  • Website: truist.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Charlotte, North Carolina, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1999
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 37
  • LinkedIn: truistfinancialcorporation

Truist Financial Corporation, founded in 1999 and based in Charlotte, North Carolina, is a major banking institution that provides a comprehensive range of financial services, including consumer and commercial banking, loans, investment management, and insurance products. With over 10,000 employees, Truist serves both individual consumers and businesses, helping them manage their finances and secure loans. In 2024, Truist has been involved in several significant transactions that reflect its commitment to community development and social impact. Notably, the firm has provided grants to organizations such as the Local Initiatives Support Corporation and United Way Worldwide, which focus on enhancing community resilience and support. Additionally, Truist has contributed to the Center for Disaster Philanthropy, emphasizing its role in disaster relief efforts. These transactions highlight Truist's engagement in initiatives that align with the principles of international development, particularly in supporting vulnerable communities and promoting sustainable development.


5. 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, headquartered in Washington, D.C. It focuses on private sector development in emerging markets by providing investment, advisory, and asset management services to businesses and financial institutions. IFC operates in over 100 countries, addressing challenges of poverty and promoting sustainable development. Notable transactions include a $48 million capital raise for FINCA Microfinance Holding Company, aimed at transforming subsidiaries into commercial entities to better serve the working poor. Additionally, IFC secured $30 million for LMI Holdings to support industrial development in Ghana, and it has also engaged in funding initiatives like a $1 million investment in Accion and a $350 million debt financing for Ronesans Holding. These transactions underscore IFC's commitment to fostering economic growth and sustainable development in various sectors.


6. SouRC Group

  • Website: google.org
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Beverly Hills, California, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2002
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 26
  • LinkedIn: sourc-group-llc

SouRC Group, also known as Google.org, is a not-for-profit organization established in 2002, based in Beverly Hills, California. It is dedicated to philanthropy and social impact, providing funding, resources, and support to nonprofits, civic entities, and academic institutions. The organization aims to promote education, community resilience, and scientific advancement through various initiatives, including the Google.org Accelerator and Impact Challenge. In recent years, SouRC Group has been involved in several significant transactions relevant to international development, such as granting $4,000,000 to Climate Cardinals to support climate education and advocacy, and $3,300,000 to Wadhwani AI, which focuses on leveraging AI for social good. Other notable grants include $1,000,000 to the Canadian Institute for Advanced Research and $618,881 to Camara, which works to improve education through technology. These transactions highlight SouRC Group's commitment to fostering positive change and addressing global challenges.


7. Imaginable Futures


Imaginable Futures is a not-for-profit organization founded in 2020, based in Redwood City, California. The organization is dedicated to investing in people and ideas that enhance human potential through holistic learning. They focus on social change in education, partnering with local organizations to create equitable opportunities for learners. Imaginable Futures has engaged in several grant transactions that support educational initiatives, including funding for the Firelight Foundation, Spring Impact, Latin American Leadership Academy, Emerging Leaders Foundation, and iBeac. These transactions reflect their commitment to advancing education and systemic change in various regions, including Sub-Saharan Africa, Brazil, and the United States, making them a significant player in the international development landscape.


8. Wells Fargo

  • Website: wellsfargo.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1852
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 42
  • LinkedIn: wellsfargo

Wells Fargo & Company is a financial services company based in San Francisco, California, founded in 1852. It offers a wide range of banking products, including checking and savings accounts, loans, and investment management services, serving both individual consumers and businesses. In 2024, Wells Fargo has been actively involved in international development through various grant transactions. Notably, it provided $25 million to the Opportunity Finance Network, which focuses on expanding access to capital for underserved communities. Additionally, it supported the Milken Institute and Enterprise Community Investment with $1 million grants each, both of which are involved in promoting economic growth and community development. These transactions highlight Wells Fargo's commitment to community engagement and its role in fostering financial solutions that align with international development objectives.


9. Google

  • Website: google.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Mountain View, California, United States (USA)
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 32
  • LinkedIn: google

Google, based in Mountain View, California, is a corporate investor with a significant presence in the technology sector, particularly through its advertising technology company, AdMob. In 2024, Google has made 32 investments, showcasing its active role in various markets. Notably, Google has participated in several grant transactions that align with international development objectives. For example, it provided $1,000,000 to Wadhwani AI in December 2022 and $2,000,000 in May 2019, both aimed at enhancing AI solutions for social challenges. Additionally, Google supported the Social Engineering Project with a $50,000 grant in January 2023 and CODE2040 with a $775,000 grant in February 2015, focusing on increasing diversity in technology. These transactions highlight Google's engagement in initiatives that promote social equity and technological advancement, making it a noteworthy investor in the international development sector.


10. Blackstone

  • Website: blackstone.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1985
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 57
  • LinkedIn: blackstonegroup

Blackstone Inc. is a leading investment management firm based in New York, specializing in alternative investments across various sectors, including private equity, real estate, and credit solutions. Founded in 1985, Blackstone has built a reputation for delivering lasting value through its extensive portfolio and investment strategies. Notably, Blackstone has engaged in transactions that have implications for international development, such as acquiring a majority interest in Sithe Global Power, which focuses on energy infrastructure. Additionally, their investment in Nagarjuna Construction Company Limited, which raised US $150 million to support public-private infrastructure projects, highlights their role in facilitating development initiatives. Furthermore, their recent acquisition of a minority stake in AGS Airports for £235 million aims to bolster the travel and tourism industries in the UK, further demonstrating their involvement in projects that can stimulate economic growth and development.


11. 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 investment solutions to institutional and individual clients. In recent years, KKR has made significant strides in the international development sector, particularly through its Global Impact Fund. Notable transactions include a $120 million investment in EQuest Education Group, aimed at enhancing educational access in Vietnam, and additional funding to support the expansion of the Canadian International School System in Ho Chi Minh City. KKR's commitment to education is further exemplified by its investment in Taylor’s Education Group. Furthermore, KKR's acquisition of a stake in GreenCollar, an Australian environmental consultancy, highlights its focus on sustainability and environmental impact, which are essential elements of international development. Overall, KKR leverages its extensive expertise and resources to support initiatives that foster social and economic progress globally.


12. 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 not only funding but also mentorship and resources to help founders scale their businesses. With a global focus, 500 Global has made significant investments in various innovative startups. Notably, they invested in SocialCops, a technology data company that raised $320k to enhance data-driven decision-making, which is crucial for development initiatives. Additionally, their investment in Enhance Ventures, a Dubai-based holding company for online marketplaces in the Middle East and Africa, highlights their engagement in regions that are often the focus of international development efforts. Other investments include Pacto por la Primera Infancia and NewCampus, which further demonstrate their commitment to supporting ventures that can contribute to social and economic development.


13. Boston Impact Initiative


Boston Impact Initiative is a not-for-profit organization based in Boston, Massachusetts, founded in 2013, that focuses on impact investing and social enterprise. Its mission is to close the racial wealth gap by providing integrated capital to underrepresented entrepreneurs and communities of color. The organization not only invests in social enterprises and community-controlled real estate but also offers educational programs and advisory services to empower these communities. Notable transactions include funding for Caribbean Integration Community Development and Eastie Farm, both of which raised debt financing aimed at community development. Additionally, the organization has supported the Solomon Consulting Group and Capital Good Fund, which further illustrates its commitment to fostering economic growth and social equity. These activities reflect a broader commitment to community empowerment, which is a significant aspect of international development.


14. Omidyar Network

  • Website: omidyar.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Redwood City, California, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2004
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 3
  • LinkedIn: omidyar-network

Omidyar Network is a not-for-profit philanthropic organization founded in 2004, based in Redwood City, California. It is dedicated to fostering social change through funding and partnerships, focusing on shared power and prosperity in the digital age. The organization provides financial support and strategic guidance to initiatives that align with its mission. Notably, Omidyar Network has made significant investments in organizations that contribute to international development, such as the African Leadership Academy, which raised over $28 million in a Series B round to enhance educational opportunities in Africa. They also supported Global Integrity with a $2.4 million investment, aimed at promoting transparency and accountability in governance. Additionally, their funding of DataKind and Fast Forward highlights their commitment to leveraging data and technology for social impact, further reinforcing their relevance in the international development landscape.


15. 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, agribusiness, solar projects, and affordable housing. They are dedicated to supporting entrepreneurs and businesses in underserved communities by offering flexible capital solutions to help them grow and thrive. Advantage Capital's investment strategy includes venture capital, capital investment consulting, and management of investment funds. Notably, they have been involved in several transactions that reflect their commitment to community development, such as providing debt financing to Rise Community Development, Gulf Coast Housing Partnership, and New Orleans Area Habitat For Humanity. These transactions highlight their focus on enhancing affordable housing and community infrastructure, which are critical components of international development efforts.


16. T.D. Jakes Foundation

  • Website: tdjfoundation.org
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Dallas, Texas, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2020
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 15
  • LinkedIn: tdjfoundation

The T.D. Jakes Foundation is a not-for-profit organization founded in 2020, based in Dallas, Texas. It is dedicated to connecting underserved communities to life-changing opportunities through its focus on financial inclusion, educational access, and workforce readiness. The foundation implements various programs, such as the Texas Offenders Reentry Initiative and the Distinctively Her program, aimed at empowering individuals and communities in need. In 2024, the foundation was involved in several significant grant transactions, including a $1,000,000 grant to Enterprise Community Investment and a $1,000,000 grant to the Milken Institute, both aimed at fostering community development and economic empowerment. Additionally, it supported the HBCU CDAC and SoLa Foundation with grants of $100,000 and $250,000, respectively. These transactions reflect the foundation's commitment to enhancing opportunities for marginalized groups, which aligns with the objectives of international development.


17. Morgan Stanley

  • Website: morganstanley.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1986
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 79
  • LinkedIn: morgan-stanley

Morgan Stanley is a prominent investment bank and financial services firm founded in 1986, headquartered in New York, New York. With a workforce exceeding 10,000 employees, the firm offers a wide range of services including wealth management, investment banking, and capital markets. Morgan Stanley serves a diverse clientele, including individuals, families, corporations, and governments, helping them manage and grow their financial assets. The firm has a global presence and leverages its expertise to provide tailored financial solutions. In recent years, Morgan Stanley has been involved in several transactions relevant to international development, such as the grant provided to Amal Alliance, which raised $100,000 to support initiatives with potential social impact. Additionally, their acquisition of KSH Infra in India for approximately ₹350 crore highlights their interest in expanding infrastructure capabilities in emerging markets. These activities reflect Morgan Stanley's engagement in sectors that can contribute to sustainable development and economic growth.


18. Tetra Tech

  • Website: tetratech.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Pasadena, California, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1966
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 2
  • LinkedIn: tetra-tech

Tetra Tech, Inc. is a consulting and engineering firm based in Pasadena, California, specializing in water management, environmental services, and sustainable infrastructure solutions. Founded in 1966, the company serves both government and commercial clients, leveraging advanced technologies and local knowledge to address complex challenges in resource management and compliance. Notably, Tetra Tech has made significant strides in the international development sector, particularly through its acquisition of The Kaizen Company, a management consulting firm focused on international development, announced on May 26, 2021. This acquisition aims to enhance Tetra Tech's international development practice. Additionally, Tetra Tech has expanded its global presence through various acquisitions, including firms that provide services in environmental and resource management, which are critical components of sustainable development initiatives.



International Development Insights: Key Investors in the US


InvestorHeadquarterSizeFoundedDeals 2024
Government of CanadaCanada, Kentucky, United States (USA)10001+1999137
CitiNew York, New York, United States (USA)10001+1812107
Y CombinatorSan Francisco, California, United States (USA)51-2002005802
TruistCharlotte, North Carolina, United States (USA)10001+199937
IFC - International Finance CorporationWashington, D.C., District Of Columbia, United States (USA)1001-50001956107
SouRC GroupBeverly Hills, California, United States (USA)11-50200226
Imaginable FuturesRedwood City, California, United States (USA)1-1020200
Wells FargoSan Francisco, California, United States (USA)10001+185242
GoogleMountain View, California, United States (USA)10001+32
BlackstoneNew York, New York, United States (USA)1001-5000198557
KkrNew York, New York, United States (USA)1001-5000197674
500 GlobalSan Francisco, California, United States (USA)201-500201098
Boston Impact InitiativeBoston, Massachusetts, United States (USA)11-5020130
Omidyar NetworkRedwood City, California, United States (USA)51-20020043
Advantage CapitalNew Orleans, Louisiana, United States (USA)51-20019925
T.D. Jakes FoundationDallas, Texas, United States (USA)11-50202015
Morgan StanleyNew York, New York, United States (USA)10001+198679
Tetra TechPasadena, California, United States (USA)10001+19662


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