IMPACT Investment Awards 2025

Impact initiative of the year - Europe: Time4

Time4 is a coalition-driven initiative aiming to reshape the venture capital landscape in France. It is convened by impact venture capital fund manager daphni, Les Déterminés – a grassroots incubator supporting underrepresented entrepreneurs, Live for Good – a youth-led social innovation non-profit, and HEC Paris – an academic institution in entrepreneurship and business education.

The fund will target founders from modest socio-economic backgrounds, underrepresented regions, and non-traditional educational paths, while supporting startups that develop inclusive solutions in health, education, and regional development.

Over 70% of France's VC funding is directed to start-ups based in the Paris region, according to dapnhi. Founders from rural areas, urban neighbourhoods, or without elite educational backgrounds often struggle to access funding, mentorship, or visibility.

Investments will range from €100,000 ($116,400) to €1 million. All projects will go through ESG and impact screening processes aligned with daphni's methodology and Article 9 Sustainable Finance Disclosure Regulation (SFDR) requirements.

The fund, which started fundraising in September 2024, will publish an annual report highlighting learnings, barriers, and successful practices. It will share impact data, founder stories, and methods.