Providing impact investments and nonprofit grants to support innovative climate solutions.
In 2021, the Cisco Foundation committed US$100 million over 10 years to fund nonprofit grants and impact investing in climate solutions.
Venture and fund investments in early-stage climate companies, from Pre-Seed to Series A.
Grants given to eligible nonprofit organizations working on building an inclusive, regenerative, and resilient climate future.
“Currently, less than 2 percent of philanthropic dollars go toward addressing climate change. Investment capital for innovative solutions that could reduce carbon emissions that lead to global warming is inadequate as well.”
Peter Tavernise, Climate Impact and Regeneration Lead, Cisco Foundation Climate Initiative
We focus on supporting solutions in six key areas:
We seek restoration and preservation of the Earth's oceans, soil, and forests through nature-based solutions.
We support food and farming systems that aim to restore and protect soil and ecosystem health.
We see energy as a way to improve lives and to alleviate pressures on the ecosystems we depend on.
We support community resourcing through education initiatives and improved financing structures.
We promote a world where resources are perpetually reused, and waste is designed out of processes.
Development of climate-smart cities to propel more climate-resilient communities.
We have developed values and priorities that guide and unify our work across both portfolios.
Our climate solutions balance global needs, bioregional contexts, social impact, and biodiversity.
we supports systems change across the climate finance and climate action ecosystems.
When appropriate, we combine grants, equity, or debt to fill financing gaps and catalyze impact.
Watch this video about Cisco Foundation grantee Canopy, which was created via a partnership with Global Citizen.
Examples of organizations, startups, or venture funds that have received Cisco Foundation funding:
Africa's vast potential fuels our climate impact investment strategy.
Women’s leadership in climate innovation helps us build resilient ecosystems.
Data and Indigenous practices are being combined to protect forests.
See the full list of organizations, startups, or funds that have received Cisco Foundation funding through the US$100 million commitment.
Cisco is putting people, technology, and resources toward Powering an Inclusive Future for All, where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. Visit our Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Reporting Hub.