----------------------------------------
Disruptors for GOOD is powered by PIF Advisory — a global services firm empowering startups and enterprises with expert guidance, tailored solutions, and measurable results. Whether you’re launching your first venture or scaling globally, PIF Advisory delivers full-cycle support across every core function of your business:
As a sister company to PIF Capital Management, they also offer clients direct insights into venture capital and access to a global investor network—ranging from individuals to sovereign wealth funds.
👉 Learn more or schedule a discovery call at pifadvisory.com
Mural Pay’s founder, Sinclair Toffa, joins Disruptors for GOOD to share how stablecoins and programmable payments can rewire cross-border money movement for businesses, creators, and marketplaces.
From early inspiration in West Africa to on-the-ground deployments with global platforms, Sinclair explains why faster settlement, lower fees, and end-to-end transparency are changing what is possible for millions of people who work and sell across borders.
Episode highlights:
Practical use cases to spark ideas:
Spotlighting impact startups, brands, and founders.
We feature social impact startups, conscious brands, and visionary founders shaping the future of business. Join thousands—subscribe to our weekly newsletter for exclusive interviews, the latest funding rounds, digital tool reviews, and curated products fueling the impact economy.
To learn more, please visit causeartist.com
----------------------------------------
Disruptors for GOOD is powered by PIF Advisory — a global services firm empowering startups and enterprises with expert guidance, tailored solutions, and measurable results. Whether you’re launching your first venture or scaling globally, PIF Advisory delivers full-cycle support across every core function of your business:
As a sister company to PIF Capital Management, they also offer clients direct insights into venture capital and access to a global investor network—ranging from individuals to sovereign wealth funds.
👉 Learn more or schedule a discovery call at pifadvisory.com
On this episode of Disruptors for GOOD, I sits down with Kevin Barenblat, Co-founder of Fast Forward, to unpack how the nonprofit accelerator is helping mission driven teams use technology, and now AI, to scale impact.
From the early days of tech nonprofits to a new wave of AI powered organizations, Kevin shares what he is seeing on the ground, what the 2025 AI for Humanity Report reveals, and how philanthropy can help the sector move faster and more responsibly.
Fast Forward launched the first accelerator dedicated to tech nonprofits and has now supported more than 100 organizations.
Alumni have reached hundreds of millions of people and unlocked over one billion dollars in cumulative follow on funding, a signal that this model works at scale.
Spotlighting impact startups, brands, and founders.
We feature social impact startups, conscious brands, and visionary founders shaping the future of business. Join thousands—subscribe to our weekly newsletter for exclusive interviews, the latest funding rounds, digital tool reviews, and curated products fueling the impact economy.
To learn more, please visit causeartist.com
----------------------------------------
Disruptors for GOOD is powered by PIF Advisory — a global services firm empowering startups and enterprises with expert guidance, tailored solutions, and measurable results. Whether you’re launching your first venture or scaling globally, PIF Advisory delivers full-cycle support across every core function of your business:
As a sister company to PIF Capital Management, they also offer clients direct insights into venture capital and access to a global investor network—ranging from individuals to sovereign wealth funds.
👉 Learn more or schedule a discovery call at pifadvisory.com
Trusty is building a simple, human way to pass down more than money. In this episode, Trusty co-founder and CEO Randy Frisch joins to share how a digital Letter of Wishes, paired with AI and secure sharing, can reduce confusion for families, bring advisors into the loop, and preserve the stories behind the things we love.
Key takeaways
What Trusty does
Create a digital Letter of Wishes
Capture what should go to whom, in your own words and voice. Record short video wishes so heirs understand the why, not only the what.
Add and assign assets in seconds
Snap a photo, Trusty detects the category and fills key details with high accuracy, then you can assign an heir and add notes.
Store and explain your estate plan
Upload wills, powers of attorney, and related documents. Trusty extracts key facts, provides plain language summaries, and lets you ask questions through an AI agent.
Invite the right people
Share access with a spouse, children, executors, and advisors. Everyone sees what they need, when they need it.
Security you can rely on
Bank grade encryption, biometric login, and a clear stance that personal data is never used to train AI models.
Spotlighting impact startups, brands, and founders.
We feature social impact startups, conscious brands, and visionary founders shaping the future of business. Join thousands—subscribe to our weekly newsletter for exclusive interviews, the latest funding rounds, digital tool reviews, and curated products fueling the impact economy.
To learn more, please visit causeartist.com
----------------------------------------
Spotlighting impact startups, brands, and founders.
We feature social impact startups, conscious brands, and visionary founders shaping the future of business. Join thousands—subscribe to our weekly newsletter for exclusive interviews, the latest funding rounds, digital tool reviews, and curated products fueling the impact economy.
To learn more, please visit causeartist.com
Hey friends,
Welcome back to Funding Rounds, where we break down the week’s most impactful startup and venture funding announcements—highlighting the mission, the money, and the impact behind it all.
This week, over $1 billion was invested across public safety tech, clean energy, autism care, robotics, carbon removal, and more. Let’s get into it.
First Due Secures $355 Million to Scale Public Safety Software
Funding: $355 Million
Goal: Expand public safety and emergency response software solutions
Impact: Empowering first responders with technology to improve community safety
Heron Power Lands $38M Series A to Fast-Track All-Electric Future
Funding: $38 million
Goal: Accelerate transition to an all-electric future
Impact: Advancing clean energy adoption across industries
beatBread Raises $124M to Empower Independent Musicians
Funding: $124 million
Goal: Offer flexible financing to independent musicians
Impact: Expanding access to capital for artists without sacrificing ownership
Equatic Secures $11.6M Series A to Scale Carbon Removal and Green Hydrogen
Funding: $11.6 million
Goal: Advance permanent carbon removal and green hydrogen production
Impact: Scaling technologies to address climate change at the source
Vulcan Elements Closes $65M Series A to Boost U.S. Rare Earth Magnet Production
Funding: $65 million
Goal: Produce high-performance rare earth magnets in the U.S.
Impact: Strengthening domestic supply chains for critical clean energy materials
Positive Development Secures $51.5M Series C to Advance AI-Powered Autism Therapy
Funding: $51.5 million
Goal: Expand access to play-based developmental therapy and enhance its AI model for personalized autism care
Impact: Supporting children with autism and their families through at-home, relationship-focused, and development-driven programs
Better Nature Lands $1.5M to Expand Clean-Label Tempeh in UK and Abroad
Funding: $1.5M
Goal: Grow alternative protein product lines globally
Impact: Driving plant-based innovation in the protein market
FORT Robotics Secures $18.9M Series B Expansion
Funding: $18.9 million
Goal: Advance safety and security solutions for robotics and physical AI systems
Impact: Enabling safe, secure, and dynamic control for autonomous machines across industries including agriculture, construction, defense, and factory automation
Aira Lands €150M to Accelerate Europe’s Shift to Electric Residential Heating
Funding: €150 million
Goal: Accelerate clean home energy adoption across Europe
Impact: Driving decarbonization of residential heating
Circulate Capital Closes $75.8M Latin America & Caribbean Environmental Fund to Tackle Plastic Waste
Funding: $75.8 million
Goal: Combat plastic pollution and scale recycling infrastructure in Latin America & the Caribbean
Impact: Reducing ocean plastic, creating jobs, and building resilient recycling supply chains
📢 Final Thoughts
That wraps up this week’s Funding Rounds. Over $1 billion invested into systems that touch nearly every part of our lives—from how we heat our homes and power our cities, to how we create music, deliver therapy, and protect our communities.
If you enjoyed the episode, subscribe, leave a quick review, and check out all the stories mentioned today at causeartist.com.
----------------------------------------
Causeartist is powered by PIF Advisory — a global services firm empowering startups and enterprises with expert guidance, tailored solutions, and measurable results. Whether you’re launching your first venture or scaling globally, PIF Advisory delivers full-cycle support across every core function of your business:
As a sister company to PIF Capital Management, they also offer clients direct insights into venture capital and access to a global investor network—ranging from individuals to sovereign wealth funds.
----------------------------------------
Spotlighting impact startups, brands, and founders.
We feature social impact startups, conscious brands, and visionary founders shaping the future of business. Join thousands—subscribe to our weekly newsletter for exclusive interviews, the latest funding rounds, digital tool reviews, and curated products fueling the impact economy.
To learn more, please visit causeartist.com
In this episode of Disruptors for GOOD, host Grant Trahant speaks with Jorge Richardson, co-founder and CEO of Hope Hydration, a startup on a mission to make free water universally accessible—powered by beautiful, connected hardware and backed by advertisers.
Fresh off a $20 million Series A funding round, Jorge shares how Hope is transforming how people interact with hydration infrastructure by combining smart IoT technology, elegant design, and ad-driven revenue models.
Their refill stations are already popping up in airports, stadiums, and major cities, with big plans ahead.
It’s a powerful mix of hardware, software, and social impact, and Jorge and his team are already making waves in cities like New York, LA, and Miami.
If you're into climate solutions, smart cities, or just love hearing how bold ideas come to life, this episode is for you.
----------------------------------------
Causeartist is powered by PIF Advisory — a global services firm empowering startups and enterprises with expert guidance, tailored solutions, and measurable results. Whether you’re launching your first venture or scaling globally, PIF Advisory delivers full-cycle support across every core function of your business:
As a sister company to PIF Capital Management, they also offer clients direct insights into venture capital and access to a global investor network—ranging from individuals to sovereign wealth funds.
👉 Learn more or schedule a discovery call at pifadvisory.com
----------------------------------------
Spotlighting impact startups, brands, and founders.
We feature social impact startups, conscious brands, and visionary founders shaping the future of business. Join thousands—subscribe to our weekly newsletter for exclusive interviews, the latest funding rounds, digital tool reviews, and curated products fueling the impact economy.
To learn more, please visit causeartist.com
Varda Raises $187M Series C to Manufacture Medicine in Space 🚀
Funding: $187 million
Goal: Bring zero-gravity biomanufacturing to commercial scale
Impact: Creating life-saving therapies that can only be made in orbit
🔗 Learn more
AWAKE Chocolate Lands $8M CAD to Fuel Functional Chocolate Growth 🍫
Funding: $8 million CAD
Goal: Expand caffeinated chocolate snacks as an alternative to energy drinks
Impact: Blending deliciousness and wellness in every bite
🔗 Learn more
SHIFT Invest Hits €92M First Close for Impact Fund 🌏
Funding: €92 million
Goal: Back circular economy, food, and climate startups
Impact: Driving sustainability-focused VC across Europe
🔗 Read more
GeologicAI Raises $44M for AI-Driven Mining Innovation ⛏️
Funding: $44 million
Goal: Digitize geological exploration with AI and automation
Impact: Making mining cleaner, faster, and more efficient
🔗 Read more
Hadrian Raises $260M to Build Automated Space Factories 🛰️
Funding: $260 million
Goal: Modernize precision manufacturing for aerospace
Impact: Accelerating innovation in national and planetary security
🔗 Read more
Fortuna Health Raises $18M to Modernize Medicaid Access 📲
Funding: $18 million Series A
Goal: Rebuild Medicaid infrastructure with user-friendly tech
Impact: Empowering millions to access benefits more easily
🔗 Learn more
Provectus Algae Raises $12.6M for Bio-Based Climate Solutions ♺
Funding: $12.6 million Series A
Goal: Scale precision fermentation using algae for sustainable ingredients
Impact: Creating new climate-positive materials through biology
🔗 Learn more
BetterComp Raises $33M to Advance AI in Compensation Strategy 📊
----------------------------------------
Causeartist is powered by PIF Advisory — a global services firm empowering startups and enterprises with expert guidance, tailored solutions, and measurable results. Whether you’re launching your first venture or scaling globally, PIF Advisory delivers full-cycle support across every core function of your business:
As a sister company to PIF Capital Management, they also offer clients direct insights into venture capital and access to a global investor network—ranging from individuals to sovereign wealth funds.
👉 Learn more or schedule a discovery call at pifadvisory.com
----------------------------------------
Spotlighting impact startups, brands, and founders.
We feature social impact startups, conscious brands, and visionary founders shaping the future of business. Join thousands—subscribe to our weekly newsletter for exclusive interviews, the latest funding rounds, digital tool reviews, and curated products fueling the impact economy.
To learn more, please visit causeartist.com
Carbon to Sea Initiative Commits $4M to Ocean Carbon Removal R&D
Funding: $4 million joint investment with MEOPAR
Goal: Advance research on ocean-based carbon dioxide removal in Canada
Impact: Unlocking ocean tech as a scalable solution for climate mitigation
🔗 Read more
Trusty Raises $1M to Redefine Estate Planning with AI
Funding: $1 million pre-seed round
Goal: Build modern, AI-powered Letters of Wishes for families and advisors
Impact: Making legacy planning more accessible, personalized, and human
🔗 Read more
Bilt Raises $250M to Accelerate Community-Centric Housing
Funding: $250 million at a $10.75B valuation
Goal: Expand its housing and neighborhood commerce platform
Impact: Reinventing the renter experience while building stronger local economies
🔗 Read more
Open Philanthropy Launches $120M Fund for Innovation and Growth
Funding: $120 million fund
Goal: Support ambitious nonprofits and research orgs with breakout potential
Impact: Accelerating high-leverage projects in global health, AI safety, and more
🔗 Read more
Open Philanthropy Launches $120M Fund for Innovation and Growth
Open Philanthropy has launched a $120 million Abundance and Growth Fund to accelerate scientific innovation, improve housing and regulatory policies, and reduce the cost of living.
🔗 Read more
LGND Raises $9M to Make Earth Data Actionable
Funding: $9 million
Goal: Democratize environmental intelligence for climate action
Impact: Helping organizations translate raw geospatial data into meaningful impact
🔗 Read more
Foundation EGI Raises $23M to Rethink Global Infrastructure
Funding: $23 million
Goal: Develop innovative platforms for sustainable infrastructure
Impact: Empowering regions to build smarter, more resilient communities
🔗 Read more
Lorient Capital Closes $500M Fund III for Healthcare Founders
Funding: $500 million Fund III
Goal: Back founder-led healthcare companies at the intersection of care and technology
Impact: Fueling innovation in patient-centric, value-based care
🔗 Read more
OpenEvidence Raises $210M to Reinvent Medical AI
Funding: $210 million at $3.5B valuation
Goal: Build the fastest-growing clinical AI app for physicians
Impact: Streamlining real-time decision-making at the point of care
🔗 Read more
----------------------------------------
Causeartist is powered by PIF Advisory — a global services firm empowering startups and enterprises with expert guidance, tailored solutions, and measurable results. Whether you’re launching your first venture or scaling globally, PIF Advisory delivers full-cycle support across every core function of your business:
As a sister company to PIF Capital Management, they also offer clients direct insights into venture capital and access to a global investor network—ranging from individuals to sovereign wealth funds.
👉 Learn more or schedule a discovery call at pifadvisory.com
----------------------------------------
Spotlighting impact startups, brands, and founders.
We feature social impact startups, conscious brands, and visionary founders shaping the future of business. Join thousands—subscribe to our weekly newsletter for exclusive interviews, the latest funding rounds, digital tool reviews, and curated products fueling the impact economy.
To learn more, please visit causeartist.com
Hey friends,
After 10 incredible years of building Causeartist solo, I’m excited to share something personal with you.
Last year, some amazing partners who believe deeply in the mission and future of Causeartist reached out. I knew from the initial conversation it was the right fit.
The Pay It Forward Company (PIF) has officially acquired Causeartist, and I couldn’t be more energized about what this means for the next decade.
What’s changing?
Nothing about the core mission or voice will change. I’m still the founder of Causeartist and will continue to lead our daily content, podcasts, and community—just with more support, more resources, and a bigger vision.
What’s new?
In addition to running Causeartist, I’ve also joined the PIF Venture Team as a partner. This means I’ll be working more closely with early-stage impact startups and the people building infrastructure for a better world. More on that soon.
Joining PIF feels like the perfect move at the right time.
Their values align perfectly with everything Causeartist stands for: purpose-driven ventures, impactful innovation, and paying it forward.
You can learn more about the venture side of the firm here and the advisory side here.
To everyone who’s subscribed, shared a post, tuned into the podcast, or built something impactful—you’ve helped Causeartist grow into what it is today. And now, we get to grow even further, together.
We have some exciting things happening in the future.
Here’s to the next decade. 😄
----------------------------------------
Disruptors for GOOD is powered by PIF Advisory — a global services firm empowering startups and enterprises with expert guidance, tailored solutions, and measurable results. Whether you’re launching your first venture or scaling globally, PIF Advisory delivers full-cycle support across every core function of your business:
As a sister company to PIF Capital Management, they also offer clients direct insights into venture capital and access to a global investor network—ranging from individuals to sovereign wealth funds.
👉 Learn more or schedule a discovery call at pifadvisory.com
Fiber Global Raises $20M to Scale Circular Building Materials
Funding: $20 million Series A
Goal: Expand production of sustainable materials that reduce construction waste
Impact: Tackling industrial emissions and advancing the circular economy
Lumion Secures $10M to Power the Future of Trade Schools
Funding: $10 million seed round
Goal: Build an operating system to modernize vocational education
Impact: Addressing the skilled labor gap through better tech and infrastructure
Swen Capital Raises $183M for Ocean Impact Ventures
Funding: €183 million
Goal: Invest in early-stage startups protecting marine ecosystems
Impact: Scaling technologies for ocean conservation and sustainability
Mealogic Raises $16M to Advance Food-as-Medicine Innovation
Funding: $16 million
Goal: Integrate personalized nutrition and clinical outcomes through tech
Impact: Helping prevent chronic illness and improve health through better food systems
Accessibility Startup Sociability Raises $3.5M
Funding: $3.5 million seed round
Goal: Build accessible tech solutions for people with disabilities
Impact: Empowering inclusive innovation with support from global backers
Learn more about Sociability →
SparkCharge Secures $30.5M to Expand Mobile EV Charging
Funding: $30.5 million
Goal: Scale its mobile charging network across the U.S.
Impact: Making EV adoption more convenient and equitable through on-demand service
----------------------------------------
Spotlighting impact startups, brands, and founders.
We feature social impact startups, conscious brands, and visionary founders shaping the future of business. Join thousands—subscribe to our weekly newsletter for exclusive interviews, the latest funding rounds, digital tool reviews, and curated products fueling the impact economy.
To learn more, please visit causeartist.com
In episode 230 of the Disruptors for GOOD podcast, I had the privilege of speaking with Angela O’Brien, founder and creative director of Cleobella, an ethical fashion brand rooted in global inspiration, artisan partnership, and sustainability.
What began as a dream during a year-long adventure through Southeast Asia in 2006 has grown into a globally recognized brand celebrated for its craftsmanship, transparency, and commitment to empowering women.
In our conversation, Angela shares the remarkable 20-year journey behind Cleobella, the brand’s ethos, and how deep, long-standing artisan partnerships have shaped every collection.
Angela’s early career as a model took her across Europe and Japan, but she always felt called to create rather than be the product. That creative spark led her and her husband Jim on a global backpacking trip that would change everything.
In Bali and India, Angela connected with local artisans whose traditions and techniques would inspire the very foundation of Cleobella.
What started with wrap skirts made from recycled saris and hand-tooled leather bags sold at farmer’s markets in Maui has now evolved into a certified B Corp fashion label, recognized for blending luxury design with slow fashion values.
----------------------------------------
Spotlighting impact startups, brands, and founders.
We feature social impact startups, conscious brands, and visionary founders shaping the future of business. Join thousands—subscribe to our weekly newsletter for exclusive interviews, the latest funding rounds, digital tool reviews, and curated products fueling the impact economy.
To learn more, please visit causeartist.com
In this episode of Disruptors for GOOD, I sit down with Brian Sheng, the co-founder and CEO of Aquaria, to explore how his company is reshaping the future of water access.
At a time when nearly 30 million Americans are affected by water scarcity each year—and our infrastructure is failing to keep up—Aquaria offers a revolutionary solution: extracting clean, reliable water directly from the air.
Brian shares how an unexpected path led him into the world of climate tech, why aging water systems are a ticking time bomb, and how Aquaria is making water independence not only possible—but scalable. This is a must-listen for anyone passionate about sustainability, innovation, and the future of infrastructure.
About Brian Sheng
Brian Sheng is the Co-Founder and CEO of Aquaria, a Public Benefit Corporation building the world’s first Air Water Infrastructure network. A serial entrepreneur and Forbes 30 Under 30 honoree, Brian has dedicated his career to solving massive problems at the intersection of technology, infrastructure, and climate.
After witnessing the devastating water shortages in cities like São Paulo, Cape Town, and Mexico City, Brian partnered with his brother Eric to launch Aquaria. Their goal? To provide decentralized water security by harnessing a resource that’s all around us—air.
Today, Brian leads Aquaria with a bold vision: to serve 1 million people in water-scarce regions using atmospheric water generation (AWG) technology over the next decade. In his own words, "I consider this my life's work."
About Aquaria
Aquaria is a climate-tech company using Atmospheric Water Generation (AWG) to produce clean water—anytime, anywhere—by condensing and purifying moisture from the air. Their technology doesn’t require pipelines, wells, or municipal connections. It's plug-and-play water independence.
Aquaria’s flagship products include the Hydropack series for households and the Hydrogrid platform for community-scale water infrastructure. These systems can generate from 66 to 10,000+ gallons of clean water per day, offering a sustainable alternative to aging or nonexistent water systems.
What sets Aquaria apart:
✅ No permits or plumbing needed
🌞 Solar-ready and energy efficient
🌎 Ideal for off-grid, emergency, and underserved communities
🏡 Focused on residential first—scaling to cities next
🤝 Partnerships with nonprofits, developers, and policymakers
With over $100M in financing secured and recognition from outlets like TIME’s Best Inventions of 2024, Aquaria is scaling fast. And it’s not just a business—it’s a movement to democratize access to clean water.
----------------------------------------
Spotlighting impact startups, brands, and founders.
We feature social impact startups, conscious brands, and visionary founders shaping the future of business. Join thousands—subscribe to our weekly newsletter for exclusive interviews, the latest funding rounds, digital tool reviews, and curated products fueling the impact economy.
To learn more, please visit causeartist.com
In episode 228 of the Disruptors for GOOD Podcast, I had the pleasure of speaking with Jacqueline Novogratz, Founder & CEO of Acumen on her global journey that led her from the world of international banking to the heart of social entrepreneurship—beginning in Rwanda, and now reaching 650+ million lives through Acumen’s work around the world.
From Chase Bank to Kigali: A Journey Rooted in Empathy
Jacqueline’s journey began not with a grand strategy, but with a moment of clarity while working in Rwanda in the late 1980s, where she helped launch one of the country’s first microfinance institutions.
There, she witnessed how markets could be harnessed to empower individuals—especially women—but also saw how fragmented and fragile traditional aid systems were.
"Access isn't enough; capability is key."That idea would eventually become Acumen.
The Founding of Acumen: Bridging Markets and Philanthropy
Founded in 2001, Acumen was created to tackle what Jacqueline calls "the blue flame" space—the gap between pure philanthropy and market-driven capitalism. Acumen uses “patient capital” to invest in entrepreneurs solving problems in energy, agriculture, healthcare, education, and workforce development.
"We need to reframe what risk means in investing."Acumen has since invested over $150 million into companies that have impacted millions of people in low-income communities across Africa, South Asia, Latin America, and the U.S. But the goal isn’t just scale—it’s systemic change.
What It Takes to Build Markets That Work for the Poor
Jacqueline explains that creating sustainable impact requires far more than capital—it demands a deep understanding of local contexts, cultural norms, and the lived experiences of the communities being served.
"The status quo exists for a reason; change is hard."She emphasizes that real progress depends on:
Acumen works to build "markets with moral imagination", where value creation doesn’t come at the cost of human dignity or environmental degradation.
Education, Circular Impact, and the Future of Social Entrepreneurship
Another major focus of Acumen is education. Through the Acumen Academy, they’ve trained over 1,800 social enterprise leaders, equipping them with tools in moral leadership, storytelling, and systems thinking.
Jacqueline envisions a circular economy of impact investing, where capital flows to and from communities, creating sustainable, inclusive systems over time.
"Resilience and moral imagination are essential qualities for social entrepreneurs."She sees the future of impact rooted in innovative partnerships—between private and public sectors, startups and institutions, and across geographies.
A Legacy of Courage and Compassion
As Jacqueline looks ahead, her message is clear: we need a new moral framework for capitalism—one that measures success not just in returns, but in human dignity and long-term value for society.
Her story is a reminder that systems can change, markets can heal, and entrepreneurs—when supported with the right kind of capital and community—can solve the world’s most pressing problems.
----------------------------------------
Spotlighting impact startups, brands, and founders.
We feature social impact startups, conscious brands, and visionary founders shaping the future of business. Join thousands—subscribe to our weekly newsletter for exclusive interviews, the latest funding rounds, digital tool reviews, and curated products fueling the impact economy.
To learn more, please visit causeartist.com
Welcome to another episode of the Investing in Impact podcast. Today, I’m joined by Dr. Andy Kuper, Founder and CEO of LeapFrog Investments, a pioneering firm that has reshaped how global capital can drive profit with purpose.
Dr. Andy Kuper, founder and CEO of LeapFrog Investments, has redefined how private capital can create meaningful change. Since launching the firm in 2007, Kuper has led with a bold vision: to deliver "Profit with Purpose" by investing in businesses that generate strong returns while solving real-world challenges across Asia and Africa.
📈 Impact at Scale: 537 Million Lives Reached
Today, LeapFrog’s portfolio companies serve over 537 million people, providing access to essential services like healthcare, financial tools, and climate solutions. Of those reached, 359 million are emerging consumers, many of whom are gaining access to formal financial and health services for the first time.
Beyond reach, LeapFrog’s investments have supported over 241,000 jobs and livelihoods in more than 37 countries, contributing to inclusive economic development at scale.
💸 Billions Raised, Sustainable Growth Delivered
LeapFrog has secured nearly $3 billion in capital commitments from some of the world’s leading financial institutions. The firm typically invests $20–75 million in high-growth companies led by exceptional teams, targeting influential minority or majority stakes.
These portfolio companies have achieved an average annual growth rate of 23% since investment—proving that social impact and financial success are not mutually exclusive.
🏆 Global Recognition for Global Impact
LeapFrog has received international acclaim for its transformative approach. Fortune named it one of the Top 5 Companies to Change the World, alongside Apple and Novartis—making it the first private investment firm to earn that recognition.
Dr. Kuper has been honored worldwide, including being appointed an Officer of the Order of Australia in 2022 for distinguished service to impact investing and financial inclusion. He’s also been recognized by the World Economic Forum, EY, YPO, and the Economist Group for his global leadership.
🎓 Scholar, Author, and Advocate
Originally from South Africa and now an Australian citizen, Andy Kuper holds a Ph.D. from the University of Cambridge and has held academic roles at Harvard, Cambridge, and Columbia. He’s the author of two books on globalization and governance and has co-authored publications with Nobel laureates and international leaders.
📊 Leading the Way in Impact Measurement
LeapFrog is not only a pioneer in impact investing but also a leader in measuring and reporting impact. The firm is a signatory to the UN Principles for Responsible Investment, earning their highest A+ rating. It also plays a leading role in advancing industry standards as a founding Investors Council Member of the GIIN and a contributor to the Impact Management Project.
🚀 Aiming to Impact One Billion Lives
With a mission to reach one billion people through the power of capital markets, LeapFrog Investments continues to raise the bar for what’s possible in private equity and impact investing.
By combining rigorous financial discipline with a deep commitment to social good, LeapFrog proves that capital can be a catalyst for lasting, systemic change—especially in the places that need it most.
----------------------------------------
Spotlighting impact startups, brands, and founders.
We feature social impact startups, conscious brands, and visionary founders shaping the future of business. Join thousands—subscribe to our weekly newsletter for exclusive interviews, the latest funding rounds, digital tool reviews, and curated products fueling the impact economy.
To learn more, please visit causeartist.com
In episode 227, we’re diving into a powerful conversation about reproductive health and a movement that’s transforming the prenatal wellness space for both women and men. I’m joined by the incredible minds behind WeNatal, a supplement brand designed to shift the fertility narrative — from a woman-only issue to a couple’s shared journey.
When it comes to fertility and prenatal care, the focus has long been solely on women — but what about the other half of the equation?
That question sparked a movement in reproductive health and wellness, led by two best friends who turned personal heartbreak into purpose.
Meet WeNatal, a science-backed, couple-centered supplement brand that’s transforming the fertility journey for both women and men.
A Brand Born from Shared Loss
WeNatal was founded by Ronit Menashe and Vida Delrahim, two moms, friends, and now co-founders who experienced miscarriages just one week apart. Both were healthy, taking standard prenatal vitamins, and doing everything “right.” Yet, they were left with more questions than answers.
Doctors dismissed their losses as “random” or due to age, and frustratingly, the conversation always circled back to their eggs — never their partners’ sperm. Realizing half the fertility equation was being ignored, they set out to find a better way.
What they discovered would ultimately reshape how people approach conception.
The WeNatal Difference
WeNatal isn’t just another supplement company — it’s a mission-driven movement rooted in cutting-edge science and a commitment to empowering both partners on the fertility journey.
Here’s what sets WeNatal apart:
For Him and Her: WeNatal is one of the few prenatal brands that designs targeted supplements for both men and women, recognizing that sperm quality is just as critical as egg health for conception and healthy pregnancy.
Science-Obsessed Formulas: Crafted by leading doctors, nutritionists, and fertility experts, WeNatal supplements are 3rd-party tested, allergen-free, and loaded with 24 bioavailable nutrients in clinically effective doses.
High-Potency, Low-Pill Count: While most prenatals require 6–8 capsules per day, WeNatal’s innovative formulation condenses potent nutrition into just 3 capsules daily without fillers, binders, or flow agents.
Clean, Conscious Ingredients: No junk, no gimmicks. WeNatal only uses nutrients backed by real science — not trends — to ensure optimal absorption and effectiveness.
Product Lineup That Supports Every Step
From preconception to postpartum, WeNatal offers a complete ecosystem of products to support fertility, pregnancy, and overall wellness:
And it doesn’t stop at supplements. WeNatal provides a full suite of educational resources, including a Fertility IQ quiz, preconception guides, and a practitioner directory — helping users make informed decisions at every stage.
----------------------------------------
Spotlighting impact startups, brands, and founders.
We feature social impact startups, conscious brands, and visionary founders shaping the future of business. Join thousands—subscribe to our weekly newsletter for exclusive interviews, the latest funding rounds, digital tool reviews, and curated products fueling the impact economy.
To learn more, please visit causeartist.com
Today, I'm joined by Howard Fischer, Co-Founder and Chief Evangelist of Gratitude Railroad, to discuss his journey from Wall Street to impact investing and how Gratitude Railroad is building a community-driven approach to fund entrepreneurs creating lasting social and environmental change.
Prior to his work in impact investing, Howard spent over 30 years in traditional finance as the Founder and CEO of Basso Capital Management, a hedge fund specializing in convertible securities.
He previously held senior trading roles at Smith Barney, Drexel Burnham Lambert, and Cohen Feit & Company, and began his career as a Certified Public Accountant in both public and private sectors.
Howard currently serves on the boards of 1% for the Planet, The Carbon Underground, and the Garrison Institute’s Compassionate Leaders in Finance program.
He also advises BrightEdge, the investment fund of the American Cancer Society, and has held board positions with DoneGood, Builders Fund, Atlas Impact Partners, and Blackdirt Capital.
He holds a B.S.E. in Accounting and Finance from the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania, and was a Fellow in Harvard University’s Advanced Leadership Initiative in 2013 and 2014.
----------------------------------------
This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only, you should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.
----------------------------------------
----------------------------------------
Spotlighting impact startups, brands, and founders.
We feature social impact startups, conscious brands, and visionary founders shaping the future of business. Join thousands—subscribe to our weekly newsletter for exclusive interviews, the latest funding rounds, digital tool reviews, and curated products fueling the impact economy.
To learn more, please visit causeartist.com
In episode 226 of the Disruptors for GOOD podcast, I had the pleasure of speaking with Aaron Neiderhiser, CEO and Co-Founder, of Tuva Health, on transforming healthcare data with an innovative open-source model.
By providing healthcare organizations with a robust and cost-effective solution, Tuva Health enables researchers, analysts, and engineers to streamline their data processes and extract critical insights with ease.
Tuva Health takes a novel approach to healthcare data with its Hybrid Data Platform, offering organizations the flexibility to build and control their data infrastructure without starting from scratch.
By leveraging Tuva’s open-source data model and data pipelines, users can efficiently transform claims and clinical data directly within their own data warehouses.
About Aaron Neiderhiser
Aaron has dedicated his career to advancing healthcare data science and strategy. Before founding Tuva Health, he served as Senior Vice President of Technology at Health Catalyst, where he led the development of Touchstone, a data warehouse encompassing medical records and claims data from over 150 million patients across the United States.
This infrastructure powered benchmarking, machine learning, and real-world evidence generation, giving Aaron a deep appreciation for the complexities of transforming healthcare data into actionable insights.
His journey in healthcare data began with Colorado Medicaid, where he focused on actuarial and population health analysis. During his tenure, he played a pivotal role in shaping the agency’s comprehensive data strategy, setting the foundation for his future innovations in the industry.
----------------------------------------
Spotlighting impact startups, brands, and founders.
We feature social impact startups, conscious brands, and visionary founders shaping the future of business. Join thousands—subscribe to our weekly newsletter for exclusive interviews, the latest funding rounds, digital tool reviews, and curated products fueling the impact economy.
To learn more, please visit causeartist.com
In episode 225 of the Disruptors for GOOD podcast, I had the pleasure of speaking with Melinda Lee and Mallory Barrett, founders of Parcel Health, on creating pharmaceutical packaging solutions that protect people and preserve the planet.
Each Parcel Health package is crafted with compostable paper and protected with Parcel Coat™, ensuring that medications remain safe while the packaging remains 100% recyclable and even food-safe.
Parcel Health’s mission is clear: to create pharmaceutical packaging solutions that protect people and preserve the planet.
Parcel Health is redefining the future of pharmaceutical packaging. Every product the company designs, patents, and manufactures seamlessly integrates safety, user experience, and sustainability.
The company acknowledges its role in every patient’s healthcare journey and strives to set new standards for the industry.
By combining industry expertise with an unwavering commitment to sustainability, Parcel Health creates pharmaceutical parcels that prioritize both patient safety and environmental responsibility.
Medication packaging should not come at the expense of the environment. Parcel Health is leading the charge in sustainable innovation with products that enhance safety while eliminating plastic waste.
The Founding Story
The company’s journey began with two individuals from opposite sides of the world, united by a shared passion for sustainability and healthcare innovation.
Melinda’s Journey
Growing up in Malaysia, Melinda Lee witnessed the devastating impact of plastic waste firsthand. Determined to make a difference, she pursued a degree in pharmacology at Stony Brook University, later working as a research assistant at Harvard University.
In 2017, Melinda entered the University of Michigan’s doctoral pharmacy program, where she was confronted with the environmental costs of patient care: millions of plastic pill bottles discarded into landfills and incinerators worldwide.
Recognizing that local healthcare waste had global consequences, she became determined to create a sustainable alternative to traditional plastic vials.
Mallory’s Journey
Meanwhile, Mallory Barrett, a student at North Carolina State University, was already rethinking pharmaceutical packaging.
In 2017, she won the prestigious Cradle to Cradle Product Design Challenge, developing a reusable pharmaceutical packaging concept called Rex.
Her victory in this global competition showcased her talent for sustainable innovation.
After graduation, Mallory gained hands-on experience in paper packaging manufacturing, quickly recognizing that the industry was resistant to change. Frustrated by the stagnation, she sought an opportunity to push the boundaries of sustainable packaging.
A Game-Changing Partnership
In October 2019, Mallory received a LinkedIn message that would change everything. It was from Melinda, who was searching for a like-minded innovator to tackle the plastic pill bottle crisis.
The timing was perfect. United by a common mission, Melinda and Mallory laid the foundation for Parcel Health, determined to fill medicine cabinets with sustainable parcels instead of plastic.
Parcel Health Today
Since its inception, Parcel Health has redefined pharmaceutical packaging, earning multiple awards and recognition, including an accolade from the U.S. Department of Commerce.
Innovative Product Line
By prioritizing safety, convenience, and environmental impact, Parcel Health has created an entirely new standard for pharmaceutical packaging.
Award-Winning Innovation
Parcel Health has received numerous accolades, including:
The Future of Parcel Health
Based in Pittsburgh, PA, Parcel Health is just getting started.
The company is leading a global movement to eliminate plastic from pharmaceutical packaging, ensuring that future generations inherit a planet free from unnecessary waste.
----------------------------------------
Thrive in the Impact Economy.
Join tens of thousands. Subscribe to our weekly newsletter for the latest news, exclusive interviews, and curated products that drive the Impact Economy. Our mission is to highlight and celebrate the founders, creators, investors, and conscious brands shaping the future of conscious business and philanthropy.
To learn more, please visit causeartist.com
Dr. Jeannie Annan is the Senior Vice President and Chief Research and Innovation Officer at the International Rescue Committee (IRC), one of the world’s leading humanitarian organizations. The IRC responds to the worst humanitarian crises, helping people whose lives have been shattered by conflict, disaster, and persecution to survive, recover, and rebuild their futures. Operating in over 40 countries and in 28 U.S. cities, the IRC combines lifesaving support with long-term development strategies, impacting millions of lives each year.
Dr. Annan co-founded the Airbel Impact Lab, which serves as the IRC’s research and innovation arm. The Lab brings together a multidisciplinary team of researchers, designers, behavioral scientists, and analysts who work hand-in-hand with frontline staff, technical experts, and partners to create high-impact, scalable solutions.
Airbel focuses on a range of critical areas, including health, education, gender equity, livelihoods, and climate resilience, and operates in more than 30 crisis-affected countries around the globe. As a core part of the IRC, Airbel’s innovative work is seamlessly integrated with the organization’s humanitarian operations, ensuring that research and new solutions directly address the needs of those on the frontlines of crises.
Dr. Annan’s own research has broken new ground in designing and testing interventions to address economic, behavioral, and mental health challenges, with a particular focus on preventing violence and supporting women and children affected by conflict and displacement. Her career began with on-the-ground leadership in education and psychosocial programming in Kosovo, northern Uganda, and South Sudan, providing her with deep insights into the realities of humanitarian work.
In addition to her leadership at the IRC, Dr. Annan is an Associate at the Pearson Institute for the Study and Resolution of Global Conflicts at the University of Chicago and a research affiliate at Innovations for Poverty Action. Her academic achievements include a PhD in Counseling Psychology and prestigious fellowships at Yale, NYU, and Harvard, where she has advanced her focus on forced displacement and violence prevention.
Today, we’ll explore how the IRC and Airbel Impact Lab are reshaping humanitarian response through research and innovation, Jeannie’s groundbreaking work in designing scalable interventions, and the critical importance of applying evidence-based solutions in crisis settings. This conversation will inspire and challenge you to think about how innovation can drive meaningful change in even the most complex environments.
----------------------------------------
Thrive in the Impact Economy.
Join tens of thousands. Subscribe to our weekly newsletter for the latest news, exclusive interviews, and curated products that drive the Impact Economy. Our mission is to highlight and celebrate the founders, creators, investors, and conscious brands shaping the future of conscious business and philanthropy.
To learn more, please visit causeartist.com
In episode 223 of the Disruptors for GOOD podcast, I had the pleasure of speaking with Andrew Savage, a founding member and VP of Sustainability at Lime, on growing the companies sustainability efforts alongside its revenue growth.
In 2017, Lime emerged as a fresh face in urban transportation, reimagining how we navigate our cities with electric scooters and bikes. Since then, the company has rapidly expanded its reach, currently operating in over 250 markets worldwide.
At the heart of Lime’s journey is a dedication to sustainability, balancing rapid growth with environmentally conscious practices and innovations in battery technology.
In a our recent discussion, Andrew Savage, a founding member of Lime and its VP of Sustainability, shared insights on how the company has tackled challenges, innovated, and set a vision for greener urban spaces.
About Andrew
Andrew is a founding member and VP of Sustainability at Lime, the world’s largest electric micromobility company. Andrew has been at the forefront of sustainability and innovation, playing a pivotal role in scaling Lime to over 250 global markets and securing more than $750 million in investment.
At Lime, he initially led the company’s market development, government relations, and policy strategy before building and leading its sustainability function, driving the company’s mission to reduce emissions and support clean, efficient urban transport.
Before Lime, Andrew held a leadership role at an Inc. 500 solar manufacturer and renewable project developer, where he championed impactful policies, expanded new business, and drove national growth.
He also served on the board of the U.S. solar industry’s national trade association, representing over 1,000 member businesses.
With a career spanning business, sustainability, and the public sector, Andrew has overseen key initiatives, including co-authoring a $6 billion home energy retrofit program in Congress—backed by President Obama and embedded in the 2022 Inflation Reduction Act.
----------------------------------------
Thrive in the Impact Economy.
Join tens of thousands. Subscribe to our weekly newsletter for the latest news, exclusive interviews, and curated products that drive the Impact Economy. Our mission is to highlight and celebrate the founders, creators, investors, and conscious brands shaping the future of conscious business and philanthropy.
To learn more, please visit causeartist.com
In episode 222 of the Disruptors for GOOD podcast, I had the privilege of speaking with Justin Barad, MD, CEO of Osso VR. We explored how his groundbreaking virtual reality platform is transforming surgical training, improving healthcare outcomes, and setting new standards in medical education worldwide.
Traditional surgical training methods, while foundational, often face limitations in scalability, accessibility, and adaptability to new technologies. Enter Osso VR, a groundbreaking platform that leverages virtual reality (VR) to revolutionize surgical training and assessment.
By providing immersive, hands-on experiences, Osso VR is setting new standards in medical education, ensuring that healthcare professionals are well-equipped to deliver optimal patient care.
The Genesis of Osso VR
Osso VR was founded in 2016 by Dr. Justin Barad, a UCLA and Harvard-trained pediatric orthopedic surgeon. With a background in bioengineering and a passion for video game development, Dr. Barad identified a critical gap in surgical training methodologies.
Traditional approaches often lacked the flexibility and realism needed to keep pace with rapidly advancing medical technologies.
This realization led to the creation of Osso VR, aiming to democratize access to high-quality surgical training through immersive VR experiences.
Transforming Surgical Training Through Virtual Reality
Osso VR offers a comprehensive platform that combines cinematic-quality VR with clinically accurate simulations. This fusion allows healthcare professionals to practice and master surgical procedures in a risk-free, virtual environment.
The platform's key features include:
----------------------------------------
Thrive in the Impact Economy.
Join tens of thousands. Subscribe to our weekly newsletter for the latest news, exclusive interviews, and curated products that drive the Impact Economy. Our mission is to highlight and celebrate the founders, creators, investors, and conscious brands shaping the future of conscious business and philanthropy.
To learn more, please visit causeartist.com