How We Invest
For nearly 30 years
we have been investing in companies that generate positive social, environmental and financial returns in across the country that have been overlooked by traditional VC firms, with a focus on the Northeast.
Our experience demonstrates that great business ideas aren’t limited by location, gender or race and that investing in good jobs is a win for both the company and its employees.
We focus our investments on dynamic, socially minded companies that exhibit a dual potential for high growth and positive community impact, particularly those that:
Create good jobs and wealth building opportunities for workers
with an emphasis on jobs targeted to people with low-to-moderate incomes, in alignment with CEI’s Good Jobs Framework.
Are located in markets with more limited access to equity capital
including rural areas and small cities.
Are led by individuals underserved
by the current equity markets, including people of color, women and veterans.
Increase the availability of environmentally sustainable products/services
that preserve natural resources, reduce waste/pollution or increase the adoption of renewable energy/clean technology.
Strong investment candidates will also exhibit:
Create good jobs and wealth building opportunities for workers
with an emphasis on jobs targeted to people with low-to-moderate incomes, in alignment with CEI’s Good Jobs Framework.
Prospects for attractive returns
with an appealing market opportunity, realistic projections, appropriate valuation, and pragmatic exit plan.
A competitive advantage
through proprietary interest in technology, intellectual property, distribution system or other unique attribute.
A deep commitment to social benefits
including quality employment opportunities and environmental stewardship. Each portfolio company is required to sign a social agreement, securing a commitment to promote CEI’s mission.
A viable exit plan
within a reasonable time frame.
Learn more about Venture Capital
Through our funds, CEI Ventures provides high-impact investments to growth businesses that otherwise lack access to venture capital investment and may not have connections to advisors who can guide them toward a financial product that is right for their company. Unlike traditional lenders, CEI Ventures provides equity investments, which differ significantly from amortizing term loans.
To assist prospective and current investees in accessing our financial products, we offer an annual in-depth workshop (in-person, remote, or hybrid) that covers:
- The venture capital fund’s structure
- The financial products offered
- The utility of financial products for specific business circumstances
- The methods of assessing investee businesses’ financial health,
- Investment parameters
- Investment exit strategies, and
- The investment fund’s Good Jobs strategy, which stresses the importance of paying workers a living wage, offering basic benefits including health care coverage and paid leave, and providing a fair and engaging workplace with access to training programs that enable workers to earn wage increases and improve skills. CEI Ventures places priority on investing in businesses that incorporate these principles
To inquire about our annual workshop, please contact us via the button below.