Climate Insider Brief:

• Shyam Menon, co-founder of Bharat Innovation Fund, highlights significant advancements in climate tech sectors like electric vehicles and carbon capture, indicating a notable evolution in addressing environmental challenges.
• Menon stresses the importance of external regulation and economic viability for climate tech ventures. 
• He advocates for clear economic models and regulatory frameworks to drive widespread adoption of sustainable solutions, aiming for both financial returns and positive environmental and social outcomes.

Climate tech entrepreneur Shyam Menon, known for his role as co-founder of Bharat Innovation Fund, recently shared valuable insights into the realm of investing in climate tech startups. With a diverse background spanning organisations such as the World Bank, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, and Nadathur Holdings, Menon brings a wealth of experience to the table, particularly in navigating the complex intersection of technology, sustainability, and investment.

Menon’s journey into climate tech investing traces back to his early involvement with Infuse Ventures in 2013, where he led investments in cleantech despite the inherent challenges within the investment landscape. Over the years, there has been notable progress within the climate tech sector, especially in domains like electric vehicles and carbon capture, demonstrating the evolving potential for impactful innovation in addressing environmental concerns.

The investments overseen by Menon, both through Bharat Innovation Fund and Infuse Ventures, have yielded promising results, with several startups showcasing substantial social impact. For instance, companies like Kaleidofin and Mymobiforce focus on financial inclusion and gig worker platforms respectively, while others such as Nayam Innovations and Zumutor Biologics are pioneering advancements in healthcare innovation.

Menon’s insights underscore the critical importance of two key factors in the success of climate tech ventures: external regulation and economic viability. He emphasises the necessity of clear economic models and regulatory frameworks to drive the widespread adoption of sustainable solutions. By integrating these elements into investment strategies, Menon aims to not only generate financial returns but also foster positive environmental and social outcomes.

In summary, Shyam Menon’s work with Bharat Innovation Fund exemplifies the potential for impactful investments in climate tech and social impact ventures. Through his expertise and strategic approach, Menon continues to play a pivotal role in supporting and nurturing startups that are driving meaningful change in the climate tech landscape.