The socially responsible investing (SRI) industry in the US focuses on investments that prioritize ethics and sustainability alongside profitability. Companies in this sector span various segments, including renewable energy, community development, and financial services. They offer financial solutions aimed at addressing social challenges while promoting responsible practices. In recent years, the industry has gained momentum as investors increasingly seek transparency and accountability, correlating financial returns with positive social or environmental impacts. With the growing demand for climate-focused initiatives and equitable finance, the SRI landscape is anticipated to expand further, shaping future investment strategies to reflect changing values.


This article presents 19 noteworthy investors in the socially responsible investing sector within the United States. The investors span venture capital, private equity, and corporate entities, demonstrating extensive operations from major cities like New York and Washington D.C. Founded between 1956 and 2023, they collectively engaged in a remarkable number of transactions in 2024—from government agencies like the DOE, facilitating almost 600 investments to impact-driven firms like Y Combinator, investing in over 800 companies. Their focus on ethics and sustainability highlights a transformative shift in investment practices, impacting sectors for good while achieving financial goals.


Top 19 Socially Responsible Investing Investors in the US


1. Community Development Financial Institutions Fund (CDFI Fund)


The Community Development Financial Institutions Fund (CDFI Fund) is a public entity established in 1994, located in Washington, D.C. It provides financial assistance and support to Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) to promote economic growth in underserved communities. The CDFI Fund offers various programs aimed at enhancing access to capital and financial services, thereby addressing the needs of economically disadvantaged populations. In 2023, the CDFI Fund was involved in several significant transactions, including grants to the National Community Investment Fund, Sustainable Communities Fund, Beneficial State Bank, Community Vision Capital and Consulting, and the Community Development Venture Capital Alliance. These grants, which totaled over $4.9 million for several organizations, reflect the CDFI Fund's commitment to supporting initiatives that foster community development and social equity, making it a key player in the socially responsible investing landscape.


2. 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 is responsible for overseeing national energy policy, energy production, and nuclear power research. The DOE serves various stakeholders, including government entities and the public, by providing guidance on energy efficiency, funding opportunities, and conducting research to address energy challenges. In 2024, the DOE was involved in significant transactions that reflect its commitment to socially responsible investing. For instance, it provided debt financing of $289.7 million to Sunwealth Power, which focuses on renewable energy solutions. Additionally, the DOE awarded grants to organizations like Emerald Cities Collaborative and Spruce Root, which aim to promote sustainable practices and community development. These transactions highlight the DOE's role in fostering initiatives that align with social and environmental responsibility.


3. 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. Founded in 1999, 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 been involved in several transactions that reflect its commitment to social responsibility. For instance, it provided grants to the Mikisew Cree First Nation and the Lil'wat Nation, supporting Indigenous communities in their development efforts. Additionally, it has funded initiatives like Foresight Canada, which aims to foster innovation and sustainability. These transactions highlight the government's role in promoting social equity and community development, aligning with the principles of socially responsible investing.


4. 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. Notably, IFC has participated in significant transactions that align with socially responsible investing principles. For instance, their investment in FINCA Microfinance Holding Company LLC aimed to transform subsidiaries into commercial entities to expand financial services for the working poor, highlighting their commitment to social equity. Additionally, IFC's involvement in funding rounds for firms like Alterra Capital Partners and real estate trusts indicates their active role in fostering economic growth while considering social and environmental impacts. Through these efforts, IFC plays a crucial role in promoting sustainable development and improving living standards in emerging markets.


5. 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 robust portfolio of 170 investments in 2024, Sosv provides not only venture capital but also essential resources to help startups thrive. Their investment strategy includes a strong emphasis on sectors such as health and climate technology, which are critical for addressing global challenges. Notable transactions include their support for Wish4Fairtrade, a company focused on promoting fair trade, and California Cultured, which is likely involved in sustainable practices. These investments reflect Sosv's commitment to fostering innovation that contributes to social good and environmental sustainability.


6. 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 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 New Story Charity, which raised $120,000 in a seed round to address housing issues, and Charityvest, which raised $1,200,000 in a pre-seed round to facilitate charitable giving. These investments reflect Y Combinator's engagement in socially responsible initiatives, alongside its broader focus on technology and innovation.


7. Plug and Play Tech Center


Plug and Play Tech Center is an innovation hub and venture capital firm based in Sunnyvale, California, founded in 2006. They specialize in connecting startups with corporations to foster growth and innovation, offering various programs including accelerator initiatives and investment opportunities. In 2024 alone, they made 253 investments, indicating a robust engagement with emerging companies. Notable transactions include Helios.do, which raised $1,776,841 in a Pre-Seed round, and Concentro, which secured $3,000,000 in a Seed round. These investments reflect their commitment to supporting innovative solutions, which can include socially responsible initiatives. Their involvement with companies like Funderbeam, a platform for private company funding and trading, also highlights their role in enhancing business development in a way that could support socially responsible practices.


8. 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 provides a comprehensive range of banking and investment services to individuals and businesses, operating across various sectors such as commercial banking, investment banking, and wealth management. In 2024, Citi was involved in 107 investments, showcasing its active role in the financial market. Notably, Citi has participated in significant funding rounds for companies like Capitolis, which raised substantial amounts in Series C, D, and other funding rounds. These investments are aimed at enhancing technology and product development, indicating a focus on innovation that could contribute to more sustainable financial practices. Citi's acquisition of Quilter Cheviot in 2006 further illustrates its strategic approach to expanding its service offerings, although the direct impact on socially responsible investing is less clear. Overall, Citi's involvement in funding innovative financial technology suggests a potential alignment with socially responsible investing goals, even if its overall investment strategy is broader.


9. 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 leader in asset management, providing solutions to institutional investors and individual clients. In 2024, KKR has been active with 74 investments, showcasing its robust engagement in the investment landscape. Notably, KKR's acquisition of ERM, the world's largest pure-play sustainability consultancy, highlights its commitment to sustainability and responsible investing. This strategic move aligns with the growing emphasis on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors in investment decisions. Additionally, KKR's acquisition of the wealth management and corporate trust units of Perpetual Ltd. further demonstrates its expansive investment strategy, although this transaction is less directly related to social responsibility. Overall, KKR's diverse portfolio and focus on sustainability initiatives position it as a significant player in the socially responsible investing arena.


10. US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

  • Website: epa.gov
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Washington, D.C., District Of Columbia, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1970
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 54
  • LinkedIn: us-epa

The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is a public entity established in 1970, headquartered in Washington, D.C. Its primary focus is on environmental protection, regulatory compliance assistance, research, and public education on environmental issues. The agency serves state and local governments, businesses, and the public, ensuring adherence to environmental laws and promoting sustainable practices. In 2024, the EPA was involved in several significant grant transactions, including the Justice Climate Fund, which raised $940 million, and Climate United, which raised $6.97 billion. Other notable grants include $2.29 billion for the Opportunity Finance Network and $5 billion for the Coalition for Green Capital. These transactions reflect the EPA's commitment to fostering initiatives that support environmental sustainability and social equity, making it a relevant player in the socially responsible investing landscape.


11. Deep Tech Fund (an Alumni Ventures Fund)

  • Website: av.vc
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Manchester, New Hampshire, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2023
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 258
  • LinkedIn: deep-tech-fund-av-focused-fund

The Deep Tech Fund (an Alumni Ventures Fund) is a venture capital firm based in Manchester, New Hampshire, founded in 2023. It provides accredited investors and institutions with access to professionally-managed, diversified venture portfolios, leveraging a network of over 10,000 investors to connect them with high-quality investment opportunities in the startup ecosystem. The fund has been involved in several notable transactions that align with socially responsible investing principles. For instance, it participated in the funding of Equilibrium Energy, which raised $39 million in December 2023, focusing on innovative energy solutions. Additionally, the fund invested in Solid World, which raised $2.7 million in February 2022, potentially indicating a commitment to sustainable practices. These investments reflect the fund's engagement with companies that aim to address pressing social and environmental issues, enhancing its profile as a socially responsible investor.


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. Among their notable transactions, 500 Global has invested in Ethic, a company that raised significant funding across multiple rounds (including $13 million in Series A and $6.8 million in a Venture Round) and focuses on sustainable investing. Additionally, their investment in CIRCA5000, which raised $6.76 million in a Seed Round, highlights their support for platforms that promote responsible saving and investment practices. These transactions reflect 500 Global's engagement with innovative startups that align with socially responsible investing principles.


13. IndieBio

  • Website: indiebio.co
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2015
  • Headcount: 1-10
  • Number of deals in 2024: 76
  • LinkedIn: indiebio

IndieBio is a venture capital firm based in San Francisco, California, founded in 2015. It specializes in biotechnology and supports startups by providing investment, mentorship, and networking opportunities. IndieBio has been actively involved in funding innovative companies that focus on sustainable solutions, particularly in the climate and food sectors. Notable transactions include their investment in California Cultured, a company that uses cellular agriculture to produce chocolate, highlighting their commitment to sustainable food production. Additionally, they have participated in various funding rounds for other biotech startups, demonstrating their active role in fostering socially responsible innovations.


14. 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, founded in 1852 and headquartered in San Francisco, California, is a prominent financial services company that provides a diverse range of banking products, including checking and savings accounts, loans, and investment management services. With a workforce of over 10,000 employees, Wells Fargo serves both individual consumers and businesses, emphasizing customer service and community engagement. In recent years, Wells Fargo has been involved in several significant transactions that reflect its commitment to socially responsible investing. Notably, the company has made substantial grants, such as $20 million to the Miami Foundation in February 2022 and $25 million to the Opportunity Finance Network in October 2024, both aimed at enhancing community development and financial inclusion. Additionally, Wells Fargo supported the HBCU CDAC with a $100,000 grant in February 2024, further demonstrating its focus on social impact initiatives. While the company also engages in traditional debt financing, its active participation in grants for social causes highlights its role in promoting socially responsible investing practices.


15. Goldman Sachs

  • Website: goldmansachs.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1998
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 59
  • LinkedIn: goldman-sachs

Goldman Sachs is a prominent investment bank and financial services firm based in New York, founded in 1998. With a workforce exceeding 10,000 employees, the firm provides a comprehensive range of services, including investment banking, asset management, and wealth management, catering to a diverse clientele of corporations, financial institutions, and individuals. In recent years, Goldman Sachs has engaged in several transactions that reflect its commitment to socially responsible investing. Notably, they facilitated a $140 million debt financing for Calvert Impact Capital, an organization dedicated to social impact investing. Additionally, they hosted Youth INC's annual gala, which raised $3 million to support a network of nonprofit partners, further emphasizing their involvement in community and social initiatives. These transactions highlight Goldman Sachs' role in promoting socially responsible investments alongside their broader financial services.


16. 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 City. The firm offers a wide range of services, including wealth management, investment banking, and capital markets, catering to individuals, families, corporations, and governments. In 2024, Morgan Stanley has been active in various funding rounds, including a $2 million seed round for Infinite Giving, which aligns with philanthropic and socially responsible initiatives. Additionally, they participated in a $20 million funding round for Capitolis, a company that may contribute to sustainable finance solutions. However, their investment in Presidio Petroleum, a company focused on oil and gas, indicates a significant commitment to traditional energy sectors, which may conflict with socially responsible investing principles. Overall, while Morgan Stanley engages in some socially responsible investments, their portfolio reflects a broader investment strategy that includes traditional industries.


17. Climate Capital

  • Website: climatecapital.co
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2015
  • Headcount: 1-10
  • Number of deals in 2024: 17
  • LinkedIn: climatecap

Climate Capital is a venture capital firm based in San Francisco, California, founded in 2015. The firm specializes in supporting early-stage climate tech companies, providing not only funding but also resources and a network of investors and industry experts to help entrepreneurs scale their businesses effectively. In 2024 alone, Climate Capital has made 17 investments, demonstrating their active role in the climate tech sector. Notable transactions include a $2.2 million seed round for Carbon Collective, which aims to launch investment products focused on sustainability, and a $1.75 million pre-seed round for Climatize, a company likely involved in climate solutions. Additionally, they participated in seed funding rounds for Future, which raised $6.5 million and $5.3 million, and Ever.green, which secured $6.1 million for clean energy solutions. These investments reflect Climate Capital's commitment to fostering innovation in the climate tech space, making a positive impact on the environment and society.


18. 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 a focus on providing capital and strategic guidance to entrepreneurs across various industries, including e-commerce and logistics. Notably, FJ Labs has participated in funding rounds for companies like 'This is Unfolded', which raised £1.2 million to promote sustainability in the fashion industry by reducing waste and creating a more responsible shopping experience. This investment highlights FJ Labs' engagement in socially responsible initiatives, alongside their broader portfolio of diverse startups.


19. Breakthrough Energy


Breakthrough Energy is a not-for-profit organization founded in 2015, based in Kirkland, Washington. It is dedicated to accelerating the transition to a net-zero economy by supporting innovative technologies and advocating for policies that promote clean energy solutions. The organization has been actively involved in various funding rounds for companies that align with its mission. Notably, Breakthrough Energy Ventures participated in multiple funding rounds for Pachama, a company focused on building a tech-driven carbon credit platform, raising significant amounts in Series A and B funding. Additionally, Breakthrough Energy has invested in Baseload Capital, which focuses on geothermal energy projects, providing funding through a convertible loan and participating in a Series B round. These transactions highlight Breakthrough Energy's commitment to investing in sustainable and socially responsible initiatives.



Socially Responsible Investing Insights: Key Investors in the US


InvestorHeadquarterSizeFoundedDeals 2024
Community Development Financial Institutions Fund (CDFI Fund)Washington, D.C., District Of Columbia, United States (USA)51-200199440
U.S. Department of Energy (DOE)Washington, D.C., District Of Columbia, United States (USA)10001+1977597
Government of CanadaCanada, Kentucky, United States (USA)10001+1999137
IFC - International Finance CorporationWashington, D.C., District Of Columbia, United States (USA)1001-50001956107
SosvUnited States (USA)51-2001995170
Y CombinatorSan Francisco, California, United States (USA)51-2002005802
Plug and Play Tech CenterSunnyvale, California, United States (USA)501-10002006253
CitiNew York, New York, United States (USA)10001+1812107
KkrNew York, New York, United States (USA)1001-5000197674
US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)Washington, D.C., District Of Columbia, United States (USA)10001+197054
Deep Tech Fund (an Alumni Ventures Fund)Manchester, New Hampshire, United States (USA)51-2002023258
500 GlobalSan Francisco, California, United States (USA)201-500201098
IndieBioSan Francisco, California, United States (USA)1-10201576
Wells FargoSan Francisco, California, United States (USA)10001+185242
Goldman SachsNew York, New York, United States (USA)10001+199859
Morgan StanleyNew York, New York, United States (USA)10001+198679
Climate CapitalSan Francisco, California, United States (USA)1-10201517
FJ LabsNew York, New York, United States (USA)11-502015169
Breakthrough EnergyKirkland, Washington, United States (USA)51-200201538


Want to find more investors focusing on the socially responsible investing industry?

If you want to find more investors that are active in the socially responsible investingindustry, you can do that with Inven. We built this list and analysis throughInven's Investor Search, and there are a lot more private equity, venturecapital, and corporate investors like these globally.

With Inven, you'll also get to know:

  • Deal History: Number of deals and their sizes.
  • Portfolio: Companies they've invested in.
  • Contact data: Key dealmakers, including their emails and phonenumbers.
  • ...and much more!