It's not just about numbers or financial risk. Behind many investment decisions are perceptions, attitudes, and knowledge gaps. which weigh as much as the figures.
Investors tend to view opportunities through the filter of what the market considers “normal”: expected return, risk level, liquidity, transaction costs... If a company doesn't fit that mould, because it offers lower returns, more uncertainty or longer recovery periods, it usually falls off the radar.
But finance doesn't explain everything. Mindset counts too. Often, an opportunity isn't dismissed for its data, but for how unknown it turns out to be. A lack of contact with certain markets or business models can turn unfamiliarity into distrust, and distrust into inaction.
This is particularly tough for early-stage companies in emerging markets. Many live in what's known as the “missing middle”: they generate revenue, but not yet enough to reinvest and grow. They don't yet have a solid track record or collateral, which closes the doors to traditional financing.
And if their mission is also social (promoting inclusion, reducing inequality, creating decent jobs, or guaranteeing access to education or health), the difficulties multiply. These projects work with less tangible results: dignity, empowerment, opportunities. Fundamental concepts, but difficult to measure on a spreadsheet. And what isn't measured often isn't financed.
Catalytic Ventures is a venture capital firm that invests in early-stage technology companies.
En Catalytic Ventures, We believe this can change. We are an impact investment club driven by Open Value, created to mobilise Catalytic capital —patient, flexible, and risk-taking— towards early-stage companies in Spain, Africa and other emerging markets.
We focus on projects that promote Social inclusion, reduction of inequality and support for vulnerable groups. Sectors where the transformative potential is enormous, but investment often arrives drop by drop.
Our club brings together “business angels, family offices and foundations who share the same vision: learning together, investing with purpose, and supporting entrepreneurs who are close to their communities and real change.
Through Catalytic Ventures, We are creating a space where knowledge and experience combine with action. Where investors can explore new models, discover impact opportunities, and be part of something bigger than an investment portfolio.
How do we do it
We are relying on the experience of Open Value Foundation in philanthropy, impact investing and ecosystem strengthening to design an approach that balances the financial with the human:
- Rigor and vision We analyse each opportunity with financial seriousness, but without losing sight of the social value it generates.
- Trust and closeness We offer investors real experiences (site visits, case studies, shared learning...) that help them connect with projects beyond the numbers.
- Flexible instruments we use tools such as revenue-based financing or convertible notes, tailored to the reality of early-stage companies.
- Local partnerships We collaborate with accelerators and incubators on the ground to bridge the information gap and strengthen local ecosystems.
- Comprehensive support In addition to investment, we offer technical support in strategy, development, and impact measurement, helping companies to grow with robustness and purpose.
Close the gap
Financial and mental barriers continue to prevent capital from reaching those who can transform their communities the most. Overcoming them does not depend solely on innovating financial instruments, but also on cultivate trust, share knowledge, and build real bridges between investors and entrepreneurs.
En Catalytic Ventures, We believe that investing in social inclusion in emerging markets is not just a smart bet: it's a powerful way to make a difference.
