The Plantbased Business Hour Why are Institutional and Philanthropic Investors Focusing on Food? With Caitlin MacLean and Holly Freishtat of The Milken Institute
May 16, 2024
Caitlin MacLean, Senior Director of Innovative Finance, and Holly Freishtat, Senior Director at Feeding Change, dive into why institutional and philanthropic investors are drawn to food systems. They discuss the surge in plant-based innovations and the interconnectedness of food systems, health, and finance. The conversation highlights the urgency for sustainable practices amid climate challenges and showcases investment opportunities that blend capital for transformative impacts. They also share personal reflections and snack choices, making the discussion relatable and engaging.
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Food Systems Are Central to Health
- Food systems impact health, finance, and society, making them core to sustainability and resilience.
- Transforming food systems addresses climate change, pandemics, antimicrobial resistance, and healthcare costs comprehensively.
Food Systems Underfunded in Climate Finance
- Only 4% of climate finance is allocated to food systems despite them causing a third of emissions.
- There's a large financing gap needing around $350 billion yearly to transform food systems sustainably.
Use Blended Capital for Investment
- Use blended capital combining philanthropy, government, and commercial investment to fund food systems.
- Tailor investment structures to meet diverse investor returns and agricultural needs for impactful finance.