The Business of Saving the Planet

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Hi everyone!

After a great summer break, FSIcon 2027 is off to a running start. As we finalize our panel topics for the next conference, we’re excited to continue exploring the ideas and opportunities shaping sustainable finance. To kick off the fall semester, we’re looking to explore a question central to sustainable investing: Can investors generate strong financial returns while driving meaningful environmental impact? Or, put more simply, can you make money while helping the planet?

Investing in climate solutions often comes with many risks (not necessarily a bad thing).New technologies like geothermal energy, battery recycling, and sustainable aviation have enormous potential, but need a significant amount of upfront capital—most likely more than most investors are willing to bet—and can take years to pay off. 

But what if supporting climate innovation didn’t mean taking on so much risk?

One approach combines climate venture capital with infrastructure investing. While the former funds newer, riskier tech, the latter focuses on proven solutions that can generate steadier returns. Think solar farms, rather than the next big breakthrough. Together, they allow investors to support innovation without putting all their eggs in one basket.

That’s the idea behind Englewood Capital, founded by Brown alumnus Matt Severson ‘11. His fund combines both investment approaches while opening up climate investment opportunities to a broader audience. By diversifying across emerging tech and established infrastructure, investors can support both the development and deployment of climate solutions.

This raises another worthwhile question: Is making climate investments more accessible just as important as developing the tech itself? After all, more investors means more capital to bring climate solutions to life.

If you’re still curious after reading this (like us), join FSIcon and SRIF at 5pm on October 27th (that’s a Tuesday, mark your calendars) as we welcome Matt Severson to Brown to discuss his career, investment strategy, and thoughts on the future of sustainable finance! 

Location: Nelson Center for Entrepreneurship 4th floor