The Unconventional Capital Salon

Philanthropic dollars can't close the funding gap left by government withdrawal from climate work, even at higher payout levels. Impact investing is one response, with real tradeoffs and real disagreement about how far it can go. This salon is a thoughtful, nuanced, cross-industry look at where the two intersect, and where each holds its own, without assuming every mission-driven solution for climate action has to be a nonprofit. A curated showcase of climate ventures features a selection of companies funded by philanthropic capital, impact investment, or both, talking through the business models made possible by fresh approaches to funding and what it took to build their companies. A roundtable of funders and ecosystem builders follows, with the discussion centered around live audience questions. Interactive climate art is available throughout the evening, sparking conversation, reflection, and opportunities for expression.