Asia-focused venture capital firm Gobi Partners has on Thursday announced the publication of its third annual Sustainability Report.
The report highlights significant achievements in environmental, social, and governance (ESG) goals over the 12-months period from 1 April 2023 to 31 March 2024, Gobi Partners said in a statement.
Throughout this period, Gobi remains committed to making strides in its three main environmental, social, and governance (ESG) verticals namely circular economy, diversity, equity and inclusivity (DEI) and TaqwaTech.
“This ESG year marks a pivotal moment in our journey, moving from simple surveys to tangible measurements of fund performance through rigorous analytics,
“While our initial reports laid the groundwork for our ESG philosophy, this report stands as a testament to our dedication to lead the charge in driving measurable impact investments throughout Asia,” Gobi Circular Economy and ESG Head Carlo Chen-Delantar said.
It is noted that Gobi adopted a data-first approach, initiating a pilot program with 23 portfolio companies through a data measurements platform.
This approach has provided a deeper understanding of each company’s ESG principles, enabling both Gobi and its founders to gain better analytical insights and offering investors greater visibility into the ESG journeys of their investments.
Gobi refined its investment policies by instituting an ESG framework that encompasses every step of the investment process.
The firm established an independent advisory board with experts from various fields to offer guidance and recommendations.
To foster more conscientious operations within portfolio companies, Gobi implemented comprehensive policies, tools, and actionable practices, such as the firm’s ESG Repository, along with various educational and training programs.
Internally, Gobi pushed for stronger DEI participation, resulting in 57 percent gender-diverse investments and a balanced male-to-female employment ratio in the Greater Bay Area, with 58 percent of senior management positions held by women.
The establishment of a circular economy investment thesis has been pivotal in sourcing sustainable opportunities.
The firm has also refined internal processes to foster an inclusive workspace and enhance human resources management to streamline employee procedures and support professional development.
In addition to effective procurement policy training, Gobi initiated its Green Procurement Policy, focusing on environmental sustainability.
The firm implemented the Sustainability Accounting Standards Board (SASB) standards to ensure environmental sustainability remains integral to investment decisions.
“As we move forward, we believe impact investing is the key to a more sustainable and inclusive future. At Gobi, we remain dedicated to leading this path,
“We invite all stakeholders, including investors, entrepreneurs, and like-minded organizations, to join us on this crucial journey. Together, we can build a future where financial success aligns with positive social and environmental impact,” said Carlo.
Gobi Partners is an Asia-focused venture capital firm with $1.6 billion in assets under management (AUM).
Headquartered in Kuala Lumpur and Hong Kong, the firm supports entrepreneurs from the early to growth stages and focuses on emerging and underserved markets.
Founded in 2002, Gobi has raised 19 funds to date and invested in over 380 startups with almost 60 operating in the circular economy.
Gobi has grown to 15 locations across key markets in Bangkok, Cairo, Dhaka, Ho Chi Minh, Guangzhou, Hong Kong, Jakarta, Karachi, Kuala Lumpur, Lahore, Manila, Singapore, Shanghai, Shenzhen and Surabaya.
As a participant of the United Nations Global Compact, Gobi Partners said the firm is committed to aligning strategies and operations with universal principles on human rights, labor, environment and anti- corruption to ensure long-term value creation and sustainability across its portfolio.
