Accion Venture Lab is an initiative of Accion International that invests in innovative financial inclusion start-ups that improve financial access for people living in poverty. Because of their high risk level and remoteness, these start-ups traditionally lack access to capital and assistance that fosters experimentation and innovation. Venture Lab provides this flexible and patient capital along with non-financial support tailored to the needs of each of its portfolio companies. Venture Lab typically invests $100,000 to $500,000 in equity or quasi-equity instruments, and leverages the people and resources of the Accion network to give its portfolio companies the best chance of success. It selects these companies based on the talent and commitment of the team, the attractiveness of the market opportunity, and the potential of the company to provide transformational impact on underserved communities. Paul Breloff, Managing Director, joins the podcast to discuss his role in founding Venture Lab, and the challenges and opportunities associated with venture impact investing in emerging markets.
