The fund will invest in early-stage companies, including ventures at the proof of concept, seed, and Series A stages, developing solutions to tackle climate change, resource depletion, and biodiversity loss.
SHIFT targets startups with software, hardware, or hybrid business models that use technology to address pressing environmental challenges.
Investment focus and strategy
SHIFT Invest IV will support companies in sectors such as energy, industry, mobility, food, and agriculture, with a geographic focus on the Netherlands and Northwestern Europe. Its initial investment tickets will range from €250,000 to €4M.
The fund is aligned with the Sustainable Finance Disclosure Regulation (SFDR) Article 9, reflecting its deep commitment to measurable impact. SHIFT provides not only capital but also sector expertise and network access, continuing its support through the growth and exit stages.
Backing from diverse investors
Investors in the first close include Rabo Investments, Invest-NL, Royal Schiphol Group, Oost NL, Brabantse Ontwikkelings Maatschappij (BOM), ROM Utrecht Region, NV NOM, LIOF, Investeringsfonds Groningen (IFG), Delft Enterprises BV, TNO Ventures, Wageningen University & Research, as well as European funding sources, family offices, and individual entrepreneurs.
We’re enthusiastic about SHIFT Invest because they’re true pioneers in impact investing. They’re willing to invest early on, when the risks are still high but the impact potential is substantial. We can learn a lot from them and collaborate later on.”
– Fay Kitzen, investment analyst at Invest-NL
About SHIFT Invest
Founded in 2009, SHIFT Invest is a venture capital fund dedicated to driving positive environmental impact through early-stage investments. The firm focuses on climate, biodiversity, and sustainable resource use, supporting startups that often fall outside the scope of conventional investors.
Its mission is clear: to restore the balance between nature and society, taking both financial and impact risks to help build a more sustainable future.
