SJF Ventures

SJF Ventures is an impact investment firm that focuses on high-growth companies dedicated to creating a healthier, smarter, and cleaner future. The firm's mission is to catalyze the development of highly successful businesses that drive lasting, positive changes. They invest in companies with proven customer validation, rapid growth, and typically more than $1 million in annualized revenue, also engaging with later-stage businesses.

Established in 1999, SJF Ventures has been at the forefront of impact investing for over two decades, making it one of the longest-standing impact investment funds in the United States. Co-founded by Rick Defieux and Dave Kirkpatrick, the firm was initially formed as a venture capital partnership focused on creating quality jobs in low-income communities through sustainable industries.

SJF Ventures has invested in over 90 ventures, with a track record of over 70 investments in high-growth, positive impact companies. Notable portfolio companies include Nextracker, a renewable energy company; HYLA, a circular economy company focused on mobile device reuse; Vital Farms, an ethical food company; mPulse Mobile, a healthcare engagement platform; Jopwell, a career platform for diverse professionals; ShipMonk, an e-commerce logistics company; Waycare, a mobility data platform; and TemperPack, a sustainable packaging company. Recent investments also include Azra AI, Zero Homes, and Nuclearn.

The firm's team comprises experienced venture capital investors who are passionate about generating extraordinary results and partnering with visionaries. The investment committee has worked together for over a decade, bringing extensive investment, impact, and sector expertise. Team members like David Griest lead investments in areas such as supply chain, circular economy, food/tech, and tech-enabled services, while Dave Kirkpatrick's focus includes climate tech, solar energy, and energy efficiency. SJF Ventures also actively supports its portfolio companies in impact acceleration, including improving employee value propositions and upgrading impact measurement practices.