An Oxford-based non-profit investment platform has raised £120m in a decade from people seeking positive social returns, according to its new 10-year Impact Report.
Ethex has subsequently set a target of £200m in social investments over the next five years.
Lisa Ashford, CEO of Ethex, said: “We believe that our money is the most powerful transformational force for environmental and social change, and over the last decade, we have seen the power of people’s pounds in action.”
She added: “We have connected thousands of ordinary people with extraordinary projects, making it easy for them to use their money to support organisations taking real steps to accelerate climate action, build stronger communities and reduce poverty.”
Pedal & Post (Image: Ethex)
More than 200 projects nationwide have benefitted from the funds raised, including some Oxford businesses like Pedal & Post and Low-Carbon Hub, which raised £4.1m and £9.6m respectively.
The Ultimate Picture Palace, Oxford’s only surviving independent cinema, raised £2.9 million.
The Ultimate Picture Palace (Image: Ethex)
The 10-year Impact Report was released alongside a recent survey revealing that 67 per cent of UK investors and savers want their money to be used to positively impact the planet and society, yet 56 per cent remain unsure about where their money goes.
The younger demographic seemed to be more interested in the impact of their money, with almost 80 per cent of 18 to 24-year-olds saying they wanted it to have a positive impact.
Ms Ashford added: “If you care about creating a better future for all, what you choose to do with your money is just as important as recycling, saving energy or supporting charities.
“It’s encouraging that our survey shows such a high level of awareness of the importance of investing for a positive impact, especially among younger people.”
The survey also revealed that people feel uncomfortable supporting businesses linked to human trafficking amongst other vices.
The awareness about ethical investment alternatives is rather low at 39 per cent, although younger people show higher awareness.
Ethex provides a clear view of the investor’s positive money impact by investing directly into specific projects.
For the past 10 years, Ethex has contributed towards tackling climate change, social inequality and community breakdown, with several grassroots organisations and community organisations on its portfolio.
Ms Ashford said: “Sometimes it feels like Ethex is the investment community’s best-kept secret.”
The 10-year Impact Report will officially be launched at the Old Fire Station on George Street in Oxford at 6.30 pm on March 21, which will consist of a panel discussion on how impact investing can encourage individuals to take climate action, and build more resilient communities.
The event is free and can be accessed via Eventbrite.
To find out more about Ethex, visit their website.
