Reactor Podcast

Climate Startups - new bubble Interview with August Solliv - Impact Supporters Author - EP 007

Jerome Season 1 Episode 8

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Guest Presentation

August is a consultant at Deloitte during the day. Working on strategy projects within sustainability, insurance, and consumer products.

At night, he is the author of Impact Supports newsletter about impact VC. 
https://impactvc.substack.com/


Summary

August Solliv, founder of an impact-focused newsletter, discusses his journey and the evolution of his content. He shares his motivation for starting the newsletter and the shift towards interviewing impact investors. The conversation explores the value of interviews in gaining specialized knowledge and understanding the perspectives of different investors. They also discuss the importance of understanding the focus and scope of different VC funds when fundraising for impact startups. The conversation touches on the benefits of newsletters and the potential for other formats like podcasts and videos. They also discuss the opportunities and benefits that come from engaging in side projects and personal branding. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the impact investment ecosystem, including the potential for a bubble and the hottest topics in impact investing. The conversation explores the differences between impact investing in Europe and the US, the challenges of achieving profitability in impact startups, and tips for raising funds. It emphasizes the importance of team alignment, finding the right investors, and considering alternative funding options. The conversation also highlights the need for collective action and small steps to create impact as individuals.

Keywords

August Solliv, impact investing, newsletter, interviews, VC funds, fundraising, podcasts, videos, side projects, personal branding, impact investment ecosystem, bubble, hottest topics, impact investing, Europe, US, profitability, raising funds, team alignment, alternative funding, collective action

Takeaways

  • Interviews with impact investors provide specialized knowledge and insights into the impact investment space.
  • Understanding the focus and scope of different VC funds is crucial for impact startups when fundraising.
  • Newsletters offer a valuable platform for sharing knowledge and engaging with a specific audience.
  • Engaging in side projects and personal branding can lead to new opportunities and professional growth.
  • The impact investment ecosystem is evolving, with potential for a bubble and a focus on hardware and growth stage funding. Impact investing in Europe and the US differs in terms of deal size and maturity of startups.
  • Achieving profitability in impact startups requires a balance between growth and increasing profits.
  • When raising funds, it's important to find investors that align with your values and fit your startup's profile.
  • Cons