Our Evolution
The idea for S3IDF emerged from a shared frustration that conventional approaches to solvingdevelopment challenges were not addressing problems holistically and that even well-intentioned programs often bypassed the poor. As a result, in 2001 we began ourProjects &Programs and Advisory Services to prove that market-based approaches could improve livesand livelihoods for underserved communities. On the forefront of the market-systems approachmovement, we’ve demonstrated that programs can be inclusive, equitable and effective at anysize, especially the micro-and small-scale.
Recognizing similar challenges in the impact investing space, we’ve expanded our focus toinclude designing smaller-scale, high-risk, impact oriented investments that will balancetheinvestment continuum and propel the sector forward
FAQ
How is S3IDF’s strategy different from other impact investors?
S3IDF is focused on a segment of high-impact, early-stage startups where most impact investors are unable or unwilling to concentrate their capital. Our knowledge of blended and other innovative finance mechanisms enables us to more effectively and efficiently evaluate, advise and support these entrepreneurs towards their growth objectives.
What types of startups does S3IDF invest in?
Startups working in India. These businesses can be registered in India or the US, but must prioritize social and environmental impact and be in their early stages of growth with financing needs ranging from $25,000 – $100,000. Please see our “What We Look For” page for additional details.
Can I invest with you?
Yes – we are always open to speaking with potential co-investors or donors. If you would like to have a discussion regarding either investing or a major gift please contact S3IDF-US@S3IDF.org.
Why do you prioritize impact over return?
Our global impact objectives, enumerated by the Sustainable Development Goals, will not be achieved with the limited philanthropic capital available in the world today. By prioritizing support for startups that are financially viable and that target significant impact returns, we are expanding the pool of available social financing. Further, these investments can demonstrate the viability and value of prioritizing positive impact over financial return for our fellow impact investors, to empower them to make a similar shift and grow the pool of available capital for impact-first startups.
What does S3IDF stand for?
The Small-Scale Sustainable Infrastructure Development Fund.
What is the relationship between S3IDF-US and S3IDF-India?
S3IDF-US, a 501(c)(3) public charity in the US, founded in 2001, created S3IDF-India in 2003, a registered Section 8 nonprofit with 80G designation in India. S3IDF-US and S3IDF-India are legally and operationally separate with independent Boards of Directors.
In what Indian states does S3IDF have on-the-ground experience?
We have worked in 12 states, including Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, Odisha, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Bihar, and West Bengal.
Does S3IDF offer consulting and advisory services?
Yes. For nearly two decades S3IDF has created innovative business models and financing structures, conducted capacity building training and knowledge transfer activities, and fostered effective collaborations. Our portfolio of advisory services and direct program implementation spans nearly 30 countries and innumerable sectors of work. This expertise enables S3IDF to more effectively and efficiently evaluate, advise and support entrepreneurs in their growth to successive levels of financing and stability.
Enterprise Support
We provide targeted, holistic support to entrepreneurs and burgeoning businesses to enable their growth and long-term sustainability. Our market and financing networks, and capacity-building expertise equips S3IDF to nurture early-stage businesses into strong independent companies catalyzing change.
Financing & Markets
Building on decades of consultant expertise, S3IDF designs and iterates on effective business models, evaluates market inefficiencies and opportunities, and structures business interventions to better serve the needs of public and private entities.
Technology
True to our roots in the infrastructure and equipment space, we source and connect new and creative clean and renewable technology suppliers with first-mover customers.
Our Skills
- Financial innovation; blended capital and revolving fund structures
- Deal structuring; end-user affordability, risk mitigation
- Impact investing; program and fund design
- Replicable and scalable business models
- Program strengthening; intermediation arrangements
- Public-private partnerships
- Infrastructure/energy and livelihood integration
- Financial inclusion
- Micro-, small- and medium-scale business concepts
- Entrepreneur training
- Market linkages; supply chain strengthening; value chain analysis
- Supply- and demand-side assessments
