ONE WORLD Impact Investments LLC

ONE WORLD Impact Investments LLC, established in 2017 and headquartered in Palo Alto, California, operates as a dedicated seed fund focused on early-stage, for-profit social impact startups. The firm's core mission is to deploy capital into companies that demonstrate the potential for both significant financial returns and measurable positive social or environmental impact. With a lean team, ONE WORLD positions itself as a strategic partner for nascent ventures aiming to solve pressing global challenges through innovative business models.

The investment thesis of ONE WORLD Impact Investments centers on identifying and nurturing companies that integrate impact directly into their core operations, rather than as an ancillary activity. They seek out enterprises that are not only financially viable but also committed to creating tangible benefits for communities, the environment, or underserved populations. This focus on "for-profit" impact distinguishes them from traditional philanthropic organizations, emphasizing sustainable, market-driven solutions to societal problems. Their engagement typically begins at the critical seed stage, providing foundational capital to help startups validate their models and achieve initial traction.

ONE WORLD Impact Investments has built a notable portfolio of companies across various sectors, reflecting its broad commitment to impact. Their investments include innovative firms such as Zipline, a drone delivery service for medical supplies, and Apeel Sciences, which develops plant-derived solutions to extend the shelf life of produce. Other portfolio companies like Mighty Buildings, focused on sustainable 3D-printed homes, further exemplify their interest in disruptive technologies addressing environmental and social needs. As of early 2024, Crunchbase indicates the firm has made over 10 investments, participating in rounds that often involve other prominent venture capital firms.

While specific check sizes are not publicly disclosed, ONE WORLD Impact Investments typically participates in seed rounds. Based on industry standards for seed-stage impact funds and the nature of their portfolio companies, their initial investments are generally estimated to range from $250,000 to $1,500,000. They often act as a crucial early backer, helping these impact-driven startups secure subsequent larger funding rounds and scale their solutions. Their strategic approach underscores a belief that purpose-driven businesses can achieve both commercial success and profound societal change.