Breakthrough Energy Ventures, a climate-focused initiative founded by Bill Gates, is raising its third fund, as revealed in a new SEC filing showing a $839 million fund. The firm is working on a new fund whose investment focus will be similar to its previous funds, encompassing climate innovations in key areas such as Electricity, Transportation, Manufacturing, Buildings, and Food and Agriculture. Since its launch in 2015 with support from industry leaders such as Jeff Bezos and Mark Zuckerberg, Breakthrough Energy has raised significant funds and invested nearly $2 billion into over 100 companies.
In addition to its venture arm, Breakthrough Energy also runs programs like Breakthrough Energy Catalyst, which supports companies ready to scale their technologies, and Breakthrough Energy Fellows, which helps with basic research and new startups. The organization also engages in efforts such as promoting climate-related policy and government engagement, public outreach, and in-house science initiatives. Breakthrough Energy hosted an invite-only climate tech summit in Seattle in 2022, featuring speakers like Microsoft President Brad Smith, John Kerry, and Jennifer Granholm.
Bill Gates, in addition to his involvement with Breakthrough Energy, also has other climate-related endeavors, such as TerraPower, a nuclear power plant project in Wyoming. The focus on climate innovation and investing in sustainable technologies is aligning with Gates’ commitment to addressing climate change and creating a more sustainable future. The involvement of industry leaders in supporting initiatives like Breakthrough Energy shows the importance of collaboration and partnership in driving change and innovation in the fight against climate change.
The continued growth and success of Breakthrough Energy Ventures highlight the increasing interest and investment in climate-focused initiatives and sustainable technologies. By investing in companies working on climate innovations in various sectors, Breakthrough Energy is playing a significant role in accelerating the transition to a more sustainable, low-carbon economy. The organization’s focus on areas like electricity, transportation, manufacturing, buildings, and food and agriculture reflects the importance of addressing multiple aspects of the climate crisis through innovative solutions.
The commitment of industry leaders like Bill Gates, Jeff Bezos, and Mark Zuckerberg to supporting climate innovation through initiatives like Breakthrough Energy Ventures is crucial in driving progress and creating a more sustainable future. The impact of Breakthrough Energy’s investments in over 100 companies and its various programs aimed at supporting climate tech startups and research efforts demonstrates the potential for collaboration and innovation in addressing climate change. With the success of its previous funds and the launch of a new fund, Breakthrough Energy is well-positioned to continue driving positive change in the fight against climate change.
The engagement of leaders like Bill Gates in climate-related endeavors, such as TerraPower’s nuclear power plant project, shows the importance of exploring a wide range of sustainable technologies and solutions in addressing the climate crisis. The combined efforts of organizations like Breakthrough Energy, as well as government officials, industry leaders, and the public, are essential in creating a more sustainable future for both the planet and future generations. By investing in and supporting climate innovation, Breakthrough Energy Ventures is paving the way for a greener, cleaner, and more sustainable world.
