Impact Engine

Impact Engine is a prominent Chicago-based venture capital firm dedicated to impact investing, channeling financial and human capital into early-stage companies that generate both competitive financial returns and measurable positive social and environmental impact. Founded with a clear mission to address critical global challenges, the firm strategically partners with entrepreneurs building scalable solutions in areas such as economic empowerment, education, environmental sustainability, and health. Their investment philosophy emphasizes aligning profit with purpose, seeking out businesses whose core operations inherently contribute to a better world.

The firm primarily targets Seed and Series A stage companies, providing crucial early-stage capital to help innovative ventures scale their operations and deepen their impact. Impact Engine typically deploys initial checks ranging from $500,000 to $1.5 million, with reserves allocated for follow-on investments as portfolio companies grow. Beyond capital, Impact Engine distinguishes itself by offering robust operational support and strategic guidance, leveraging its extensive network and expertise to help founders navigate the complexities of scaling an impact-driven business.

Impact Engine has steadily grown its capital base, reflecting increasing investor confidence in its impact-first approach. The firm successfully closed its third fund, Fund III, at $32 million in 2020, demonstrating its continued commitment to supporting the next generation of impact leaders. This fund followed previous successful raises, including a $10 million first fund and a $25 million second fund, underscoring their consistent growth and expanding capacity to invest in promising impact startups. Their disciplined investment strategy and focus on measurable outcomes position Impact Engine as a key player in the evolving landscape of venture capital and social enterprise.