Impact Investing Pioneers Honored at Yale SOM
Nancy Pfund and Adrianna Alterman, graduates of Yale School of Management (SOM), were recognized for their groundbreaking work in impact investing at the recent Impact Capital Managers awards ceremony. Pfund, a pioneer in the field, was lauded for her commitment to investing in ventures that have a positive impact beyond financial returns. Alterman, a rising star in impact investing, was honored for her efforts in creating opportunities and support for emerging leaders in the industry. Both Pfund and Alterman attribute their success to the strong foundation they received at Yale SOM, which emphasizes the intersection of business and social impact.
The Journey of Impact Investing: From Fresh Juice to Climate Tech
Nancy Pfund’s journey in impact investing began in the early 1990s when she launched a fund that provided financial support to fresh juice maker Odwalla. Little did she know that this investment would not only bring much-needed jobs to California’s Central Valley but also pave the way for a new investment paradigm. Today, Pfund’s fund, DBL Partners, focuses on sectors such as climate tech, sustainable products, information technology, and work force innovation. Some of the fund’s notable investments include Tesla, Solar City, and Pandora.
The Emerging Leader: Adrianna Alterman and Salesforce Ventures Impact Fund
Adrianna Alterman, a recent graduate of Yale SOM, has been making waves in the impact investing space as the principal for Salesforce Ventures Impact Fund. Alterman joined the fund when it had just four portfolio companies and an initial $50 million to deploy. Today, the fund has invested in over 40 companies and continues to grow. Notable investments include Guild, Unite Us, and Arcadia, all of which are making a significant impact in their respective fields. Alterman’s dedication to supporting emerging leaders like herself led her to co-found the Emerging Leaders Committee at Impact Capital Managers, providing resources and networking opportunities for those in the industry.
The Yale SOM Impact Investing Pipeline
Yale SOM has been a haven for individuals passionate about impact investing, attracting candidates with a natural hybrid leadership style that combines business acumen with a desire to make a positive difference in the world. The school offers a range of courses in sustainable finance and impact investing, as well as opportunities to participate in student-led investment funds and competitions. Alumni like Pfund and Alterman are actively involved in mentoring and collaborating with future impact investors, creating a strong pipeline of talent from Yale SOM to the industry.
Impact Capital Managers: A Growing Network of Impact Investors
Impact Capital Managers, the professional organization cofounded by Nancy Pfund, has experienced significant growth since its inception in 2018. With over 115 funds representing more than $100 billion in impact-focused capital, the association serves as a hub for impact investors to connect, collaborate, and share resources. The rapid expansion of Impact Capital Managers reflects the increasing demand for meaningful careers and the desire to make a positive change in the world among millennials and Gen Z professionals.
Analyst comment
Positive news: Impact Investing Pioneers Honored at Yale SOM
As an analyst, I predict that the market for impact investing will continue to grow and attract more investors. The recognition of Nancy Pfund and Adrianna Alterman’s groundbreaking work highlights the increasing importance and impact of investing in ventures that have a positive social and environmental impact. This will likely lead to more funds and investment opportunities in sectors such as climate tech, sustainable products, and workforce innovation. Additionally, Yale SOM’s strong emphasis on business and social impact will continue to produce talented individuals passionate about impact investing, creating a strong pipeline of talent in the industry.
