What the Project Is
BGV is Europe’s leading early-stage tech for good VC – a pioneering force in equity investing within Developed Markets. For years, this firm has backed ambitious founders using technology to tackle big social and environmental problems that aim to radically improve millions of lives. The venture capital family believes that tech for good is about practical optimism… it’s not just a buzzword; it’s a commitment to leveraging technology and business functions for people and the planet. Since 2012, BGV has played an essential role in shaping the tech for good landscape – in fact, it has even helped build the impact bandwagon rather than simply jumping on board.
Main Benefit
- Investing in ambitious early-stage tech for good founders committed to solving real problems.
- Committed support from pre-seed stages up to Series A/B, along with continuous platform support.
- Identified as the first UK VC to certify as a B Corp, with a B Corp score of 118.9.
- A fair, rigorous and inclusive application process that welcomes founders from all walks of life.
- Proven track record with ventures like LettUs Grow, combining renewable energy and systems engineering to create localized agricultural innovations.
Taking on Global Challenges
The project is all about addressing immense challenges such as the climate crisis, inequality, poor health and even educational hurdles – it’s about turning these challenges into substantial opportunities for meaningful change. BGV backs founders who truly understand the problems they are tackling, ensuring that commercial growth is always paired with the power to create scalable positive outcomes. The language used here reflects a commitment to genuine, radical transparency and authenticity, making it clear that success is measured by the impact on lives and communities.
Driving Sustainable Change
The approach adopted by BGV is highly innovative. The team’s principles emphasize integrity, fairness, and a deep understanding of both social and environmental issues. The belief that purpose-driven value isn’t merely a trend but a paradigm shift has guided the investments and continuous mentoring provided to portfolio ventures. It is a philosophy that challenges the status quo and is aimed at companies led by visionary founders who are earnest about improving societal outcomes. Casual yet determined, the project’s narrative is built around the idea that every challenge – from degrading soils to high levels of food waste – is an opportunity waiting to be seized.
Building the Future of Tech for Good
A prime example of the project’s forward-thinking approach is the support given to ventures like LettUs Grow. By partnering with innovators who have developed world-leading aeroponic technology, this backing has enabled the creation of container farms such as DROP & GROW™. This technology allows food to be grown using no soil, zero pesticides, and 95% less water – ultimately empowering local production of fresh produce. Over the last few years, the success of these initiatives has been evident in the raised capital from industry-leading investors along with extensive media coverage from outlets like the Financial Times and The Guardian.
Creating Opportunities & Fostering Diversity
In an effort to ensure that the diversity of people solving some of the world’s biggest challenges reflects the diversity of those affected, BGV’s investment process avoids stereotypes and relies on merit rather than warm intros. Whether a founder is an experienced operator or venturing into entrepreneurship for the first time, the goal is to support those with big ambitions to build sustainable solutions. This platform is not only about funding ventures but also about mentoring, supporting, and following on into subsequent investment rounds. The process is transparent, humorous in its occasional casual tone, and always remains focused on creating better futures.
Project Impact
- Technology – Enhancing and breaking ground through innovative tech solutions.
- Tech for Good – Driving intentional change with technology at its core.
- Health – Promoting initiatives that aim to improve healthcare delivery and outcomes.
- Education – Empowering the next generation through accessible, quality learning opportunities.
- Environment – Tackling environmental challenges with sustainable practices.
- Democracy – Encouraging fair and inclusive practices in business and society.
Looking Ahead
With a steadfast vision to significantly improve hundreds of millions of lives, the project continues to evolve and inspire. Embracing both its storied past – from the early Social Innovation Camps and hack weekends that ignited its journey – and its dynamic approach in the present, the initiative remains dedicated to forging robust partnerships with forward-thinking founders. Such collaborations are designed not just to spur commercial growth but to ensure a direct and positive impact on society and the planet. With impact reports that detail progress and a commitment to being radically transparent, the project successfully sets higher standards in the investment industry. Casual as it might sometimes feel, the underlying determination never wavers… it’s all about creating a better future with tech for good.
