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NESsT is a global impact investor that focuses on social enterprises creating dignified employment opportunities for underserved communities while promoting environmental sustainability. The organization invests in high-performing enterprises that operate at the intersection of people, profit, and the planet, targeting job creation that benefits both communities and environmental resilience.
Since 1997, NESsT has operated with a mission to support front-line entrepreneurs building sustainable and equitable futures in emerging markets. They work specifically in regions where traditional businesses fail to provide adequate employment, with 25% of workers living in extreme or moderate poverty and 46.8% facing low incomes and difficult working conditions.
NESsT has established itself as a significant force in the social entrepreneurship ecosystem, having positively impacted over 3.4 million lives across communities worldwide. Their comprehensive approach includes multiple specialized programs such as the Lirio Fund, Violet Fund, Amazonia Initiative, and Racial Equity Initiative, positioning them as a leader in creating systemic change through social enterprise investment.
NESsT invests in social enterprises that create quality jobs for underserved communities while sustaining the planet, focusing on companies that can demonstrate both social and environmental impact. Their investment approach targets enterprises that address the gap left by traditional businesses in emerging markets, particularly those that can provide dignified employment and income generation opportunities.
Geographically, NESsT focuses on South America and Central and Eastern Europe, with specific regional programs in The Andes, Brazil, Colombia, Chile, Poland, and Romania. They position high-performing enterprises to realize their full potential through acceleration programs and direct funding, defining impact through measurable outcomes in job creation, lives improved, and environmental sustainability.

Photo credit: NESsT
Proven Track Record
Since 1997, NESsT has invested in 510 social enterprises, created 211,000+ employment opportunities, and improved 4.7 million lives with $55 million invested.
Comprehensive Support
Provides both tailored financing and one-on-one business development support through an engaged acceleration approach.
Focus on Dignified Employment
Specifically targets job creation for underserved communities while addressing environmental sustainability challenges.
Geographic Expertise
Deep regional knowledge and networks in South America and Central & Eastern Europe markets.
Locations