UK-based Ada Ventures has been investing since 2018 in early-stage European tech startups focused on underserved communities. After nearly 40 investments, more than two-thirds of which are startups run by underrepresented founders, the firm wants investors to know that inclusivity is a key driver of alpha.
The team is looking to raise $100 million for their third fund, named the Inclusive Alpha fund, to back pre-seed startups supporting climate challenges, economic empowerment and healthy aging.
“Inclusive Alpha describes an investment approach where an inclusive lens is prioritized in every part of the investment process – from the investment team structure, to the investment strategy, to sourcing, selection and portfolio support,” the team wrote. “All of this is done to drive investment performance alongside positive impact.”
Track record
Ada Ventures’ prior funds have been backed by British Business Bank, Atomico, the Export and Investment Fund of Denmark, the University of Edinburgh, Better Society Capital and Legal & General.
Its portfolio includes Tickr, an app that users to invest as little as £5 in companies expanding access to education, clean water, renewable energy and sustainable food. Valla is helps employees navigate employment disputes and advocate for themselves. MatNex is a tech company working on new sustainable material discovery.
