TELUS Pollinator Fund for Good

The TELUS Pollinator Fund for Good is a distinctive $100 million corporate impact fund established by the Canadian telecommunications giant, TELUS. Launched in 2020, its core mission is to invest in early-stage companies that not only promise strong financial returns but also generate significant social and environmental impact, embodying a "double bottom line" approach. This strategic initiative underscores TELUS's long-standing commitment to corporate social responsibility, aiming to leverage capital to address pressing global challenges.

The fund primarily targets ventures aligned with TELUS's social purpose, focusing on five key areas: transforming healthcare, promoting sustainable agriculture, advancing environmental solutions, revolutionizing education, and fostering more inclusive communities. It seeks out innovative startups that can drive positive change through technology, such as those improving access to healthcare, enhancing food security, or reducing carbon footprints. The Pollinator Fund acts as a strategic investor, looking for synergies with TELUS's own operations and expertise.

Typically, the TELUS Pollinator Fund for Good provides initial investments ranging from approximately $365,000 to $1.46 million USD (CAD $500,000 to CAD $2 million), with the potential for follow-on funding as companies grow. It generally targets seed to Series A stage companies, offering not just capital but also access to TELUS's vast network, operational insights, and market reach. This support helps portfolio companies scale their solutions and amplify their impact across Canada and globally.

By integrating impact investing into its corporate strategy, TELUS aims to foster a vibrant ecosystem of purpose-driven innovation. The fund’s investments are designed to create measurable positive outcomes alongside financial gains, contributing to a more sustainable and equitable future. Its presence as a significant corporate venture capital player in Canada reinforces the growing trend of large corporations using their resources to drive both profit and profound societal benefit.