In January, in her keynote at the Wise Women Webinar “Leading with Impact”, organized by BAN Flanders, Joke Dehond discussed the role of business angels in impact investing, and shared the following key insights.
Impact investing focuses on long-term value for society and the environment. Unlike traditional investing, it prioritizes positive change (on climate, inclusion, or social innovation) alongside financial returns. The sector is growing: in 2025, global impact investments rose nearly 20% from 2024, but they still represent only 2-3% of total invested capital worldwide.
Business angels are more than capital providers. They often support early-stage companies, offering structure, networks, and mentorship. Impact-focused angels stand out by helping companies measure and maximize ESG outcomes, shaping both the entrepreneur’s growth and the business itself.
“Business angels form a bridge between the enthusiasm of an entrepreneur and the professionalization of the company.”
Diversity strengthens investing. Women remain underrepresented as investors, but including diverse perspectives leads to better, more sustainable investment decisions. Female investors frequently emphasize impact alongside financial returns, aligning naturally with the principles of impact investing.
Challenges remain. Early-stage companies may face slow market adoption or commercial hurdles, requiring patience from investors. Balancing financial returns with meaningful impact takes time and realistic expectations.
Impact investing is no longer niche, it’s a key part of modern entrepreneurship. For founders, integrating impact strengthens growth and relevance. For investors, it’s an opportunity to support meaningful initiatives while generating financial returns.
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