Environment & Finance Enterprise's For-Profit Clients Back
Client Client Problem Approaching the Problem Recommending a Solution Results
Start-up Wind Energy Company Inability of firm with break-through off-the-grid technology to attract funding outside of friends and family for two years. Researching governmental opportunities for grant or concessionary funding where technology is in line with identified governmental needs. To create a set of marketing tools and business documents outlining the company’s mission, business model, and projections and to present them to governmental representatives. Firm received governmental commitment in the form of a grant for US$ 900,000 and obtained additional verbal commitments on up to two million additional funding in working capital and loans.
Start-up EcoHospitality Firm Consumer demand for unusual destination lodging with premium services, a “real local” experience and minimal ecological impact. Identifying current lodges and inns around the world already providing service while establishing a database of potential consumers and marketing partners. To obtain funding from a wide range of angel funders to take the firm to positive cash flow. Firm obtained commitments on US$1 million from three angels.
Start-up Online Environmental Business Library and Research Center Lack of quality data on intersection of ecology and economy. Developing a dedicated web service on the subject of how economics/finance and the environmental are intertwined that provides all users with easy access to concise data. To raise capital from a wide range of businesses, foundations, and governmental agencies to sustain the entity until revenue from membership fees allow the organization to generate adequate cash flow. System was successfully built and seed funded.
Bio-Fuels Manufacturer Innovative bio-fuel producer with annual sales of several million and solid net income needing capital to expand. Focusing on new patentable technologies to grow the firm in a wide range of locations. To create a new business plan and marketing tools and then to approach established renewable energy venture capitalists that are looking to invest in a proven business that is already positive cash flow. In process.
Environmental Business Unit of Large Financial Institution Financial institution’s concern that its interests had material environmental issues that could translate into large financial liabilities. Initially making a thorough review and assessment of real estate portfolio and stakes in companies in the mining and extraction industries. To establish specific criteria for each major industry group based on what was learned during the review and assessment process. In addition, to develop an action plan and monitoring program for each current client deemed to represent a material risk. Overall credit quality and investment quality improved, and some new clients were taken on and given new procedures that were put in place to evaluate and manage (not avoid) environmental risks.