MaRS launches SRI platform

MaRS Discovery District has launched SVX (Social Venture Connexion), an online platform that connects investors and funds with local ventures—including not-for-profits, co-operatives and for-profit corporations—that have a demonstrated social and/or environmental impact and the potential for financial return.

Read: Socially responsible ETF investing

The platform allows investors to identify screened investment opportunities, reducing the time and cost burden of due diligence, and provides ventures and funds with increased access to capital and financial expertise at low cost.

SVX is targeted towards Ontario-based small- and medium-sized enterprises with less than $25 million in revenues in sectors including: affordable housing, employment services, food security, education, renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, and initiatives for First Nations and new Canadians.

Read: Profiting from bad behaviour

The impact ventures and funds on SVX’s directory must meet rigorous criteria and standards to access the platform. This includes a minimum impact rating via the Global Impact Investing Rating System (GIIRS) in the case of for-profit ventures and funds.

SVX is accessible to Ontario-based accredited investors. This list includes impact-focused angel investors, impact capital funds, fund managers, asset managers, philanthropists, family offices, and foundations looking for mission-related investments.

The project is run in close collaboration with TMX Group and with support from the Government of Ontario, Torys LLP, KPMG, RBC, the J.W. McConnell Family Foundation and a host of other partners.

Read: SRI investors want similar returns on investment

Staff

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