The Power of Purpose-Driven Capital: Alix Lebec on Creating Lasting Impact

For over two decades, Alix Lebec has been a driving force in reshaping global finance to tackle some of the world’s most urgent challenges. As the founder of LEBEC, she has committed her career to helping philanthropists, investors, and entrepreneurs implement creative financial strategies that deliver measurable impact.

Her work spans critical issues such as gender equity, water sustainability, and climate resilience, demonstrating how capital can be a powerful tool for transformative change. Partnering with prominent organizations like Jose Andres Group, Prince Harry’s Sentebale, and Matt Damon’s Water.org, Alix’s efforts have left a lasting mark on communities and industries around the world.

In our conversation with Alix, she shared how financial institutions and corporations are embedding sustainability into their core strategies. She explored how innovative finance is addressing challenges like water security, gender equity, and climate change while also fostering inclusive economic growth and empowering social enterprises to thrive.

Check out our full interview with Alix Lebec below.

Alix Lebec

As a pioneering leader in the impact investing and sustainable finance space, can you share the key factors that inspired you to dedicate your career to driving positive change through innovative financing solutions?

Alix Lebec: I’ve always believed in the power of finance as a tool for transformation. Early in my career, I saw a disconnect between the vast resources available in global capital markets and the urgent need for solutions to climate change and inequity. My experiences at organizations like The World Bank and Water.org showed me that innovative financing models can bridge this gap, and that underserved families are a market to be served. It was clear to me that if we could reimagine how capital flows, we could unlock solutions to the world’s greatest challenges—scalable, sustainable solutions that empower people and communities.

Can you tell us about your experience in building WaterEquity from the ground up alongside Matt Damon and Gary White? What were some of the biggest challenges and most rewarding moments of scaling this high-performing global asset manager?

Alix Lebec: Building WaterEquity was one of the most profound experiences of my career. Working alongside visionaries like Gary White, Matt Damon, and John Moyer, we turned an ambitious idea into a reality—creating one of the world’s first asset managers exclusively focused on solving the global water crisis through impact investments. Scaling WaterEquity required immense perseverance: we were innovating in uncharted territory, eager to demonstrate the untapped opportunity of investing in water solutions for underserved populations while building trust with investors. I used to jokingly refer to myself as the “Chief Rejection Officer” instead of the Chief Investment Relations Officer!

The biggest challenge was shifting perceptions of risk and possibility, and the viability of water as an asset class—helping investors see that water solutions could not only deliver financial returns but also transform millions of lives. The most rewarding moments were witnessing that transformation and that mindset shifts. Seeing women exercise their financial power through access to small loans for water and sanitation solutions of their choosing (loans they are repaying at the rate of 97-99%), and regain their time typically lost to spending 8 hours a day looking for water were all essential proof points that capital, when deployed intentionally and inclusively, can create transformational and measurable change.

Today, WaterEquity is a successful global asset manager that has deployed more than $400 million in capital towards solving the water, sanitation, and climate crisis–with women at the center of these solutions.

Leveraging your background at the World Bank, Clinton Global Initiative, Water.org, and WaterEquity, how have you seen the landscape of impact investing and sustainable finance evolve over the past two decades? What are the most significant shifts you’ve witnessed?

Alix Lebec: Over the past two decades, the impact investing and sustainable finance space has undergone a remarkable evolution. When I started, “impact investing” was largely considered niche and experimental. Today, we’ve seen it mature into a powerful, credible $1.5 trillion industry embraced by institutional and impact investors, governments, foundations, and corporations.

Significant shifts include seeing how innovative and blended finance strategies, fund structures, and portfolios have made their way into the mainstream–not yet at the level we’d like to see but it is gradually happening. Through the launch and success of blended finance funds, investments, and business models, key leaders in impact investing are demonstrating the power of innovative finance. Organizations such as LeapFrog Investments, Acumen, WaterEquity, Sonen Capital, SP Ventures, Blue Orchard, Omidyar Networks, Skoll Foundation, MacArthur Foundation, Ford Foundation, Rockefeller Foundation, Ceniarth, and SunCulture are leading the way. Their efforts showcase how we can leverage all the capital tools at our disposal to fuel visionary entrepreneurs and business models that are addressing market failures and delivering affordable, essential products and services to underserved populations (who make up 44% of the global population).

We can’t create a strong and resilient global economy without ensuring global capital markets are generating real value for all people. Philanthropy alone can’t do it. Meanwhile, traditional, institutional investors are risk-averse. We need innovative finance. We can now see what’s possible when we allocate philanthropy and investment capital strategically across the risk, return, and impact spectrum in ways that are meeting the needs of today and creating a sustainable foundation for the future. This is what we call the portfolio approach to value creation at LEBEC, and one of the services we offer to asset owners and managers, including companies and foundations looking to mitigate risk and maximize the value they can create in the world.

Today, we are seeing Fortune 500 companies like Reckitt, Microsoft, and Starbucks invest from their balance sheet into funds like WaterEquity. We’re seeing institutional investors double down on microinsurance and climate action through funds launched by LeapFrog investments. Investors typically only active in the venture capital space now are investing in a Series B round with impact-driven businesses like SunCulture that have demonstrated the economic viability of solar-powered water pumping technology for smallholder farmers across Africa. All this points to the fact that forward-thinking investors understand their capital has to be building a future we believe in—one can meet our needs as a planet and fuel innovations that are solving problems and creating real value.

Can you elaborate on the “paradigm shift” in the global financial ecosystem that you’re aiming to catalyze through your firm, LEBEC?  What are the core principles and strategies guiding your approach?

Alix Lebec: Today, the world’s stocks and bonds are valued at $255 trillion dollars, philanthropy is valued at a record $550 billion, and there is $5 trillion is sitting on corporate balance sheets in the U.S. alone. We have all the resources we need to solve the world’s greatest challenges and create real value. It’s unfathomable that 44% of our global population remains underserved. This is what fuels us at LEBEC and why we’re working to catalyze a shift in the global financial system that prioritizes value creation for all—not just shareholders. The current model is unsustainable, and we need to move toward an economy where capital drives inclusive, equitable, and regenerative growth.

Let me give you an example. Mexico has the second largest startup ecosystem in Latin America, after Brazil. Many of these entrepreneurs live in Mexico City. Yet, Mexico City  is sinking due to a depleted underground water system that is overused and unable to regenerate fast enough to meet the demand for a thriving, growing city and country. The investments and potential of that startup ecosystem in Mexico City, even in booming industries like fintech, can’t thrive and contribute to our global economy if we don’t fix the very real structural issue around water. We see this with the Panama Canal, which is critical for global trade yet experiencing record droughts that have caused disruptions to global shipping. We can’t succeed as a global, interconnected economy if the infrastructure around us is crumbling.

We have a massive opportunity to creatively use the full suite of capital tools at our disposal to fund the entrepreneurs and businesses solving for those issues and meeting the urgent needs of our time while shaping a more sustainable and inclusive economy and planet. That is why our approach at LEBEC is rooted in three core principles:

  1. Alignment: Bridging the worlds of philanthropy, finance, and impact to create alignment and unlock capital for systemic solutions.
  2. Innovation: Designing financing models that leverage blended finance, impact investing, and catalytic capital to scale sustainable business solutions.
  3. Collaboration: Partnering with visionary leaders, corporations, and investors to drive measurable, transformative impact.

The goal is to challenge outdated norms and help our partners see finance not as a barrier but as a solution to global challenges. We could add $43 trillion to our global economy by 2070 if we accelerate our investments in the green infrastructure, renewable energy, water, and other key industries and technologies.

As an advisor and investor, how do you evaluate the financial sustainability and scalability of social enterprise business models? What are the key factors you look for when assessing the long-term viability of these ventures?

Alix Lebec: When I evaluate different ventures and companies (whether they are for-profit or no-profit), there are three things I really focus on. First, I look for clear, measurable value creation and impact. What problem are we solving? Is this addressing a demand no one else is? And how is this entrepreneur and organization uniquely positioned to address it?  I want to see a model that tackles a critical need and can show tangible financial, environmental, and social outcomes.

Secondly, I look for financial sustainability. The business must have a solid revenue model and long-term growth projections that are optimistic but grounded in reality (that take into account environmental, regulatory, political, and currency risk), and that tangibly building a strong, equitable, and resilient economy. And thirdly, I look for scalability and leadership—businesses that are responding to market demand and using creative approaches, and visionary leadership that can drive them to scale. I look for leaders who understand their strengths and weaknesses and hire other exceptional leaders to fill the gaps. I look for leaders who believe empathy and emotional intelligence can co-exist with delivering real financial value for stakeholders. I look for leaders who have a credible track record and are from diverse backgrounds. Why? Because 85% of the world’s population lives in emerging markets and we have an immense pool of diverse talent on our planet. I look for unique perspectives and leaders with a lived understanding of local challenges and opportunities. They’re often best positioned to create solutions that truly resonate with the communities and customers they serve.

For me, it’s all about identifying where real value creation intersects with bold, authentic, and inclusive leadership—delivering both financial and social returns. It’s also thinking creatively about what a diversified, customized portfolio of investments can achieve when they are strategically using different capital tools across the risk, return, and impact spectrum to meet the needs of our economy and planet.

That’s one of the reasons I invested in Polymath Ventures and support the organization as an impact advisor. Having spent a decade building WaterEquity, I was keen to better understand the venture capital and tech ecosystem and how they could address financial exclusion in regions such as Latin America. I was super impressed with Wenyi Cai’s vision and leadership, in her team members such as Peter Ostroke, and the businesses they were building and investing. For instance, Elenas, one of the tech companies Polymath helped build, has quadrupled income for women entrepreneurs in Colombia, leveraging tech and market insights. Polymath spent a decade studying the region to really understand what was needed and how tech as a tool can help solve challenges. Polymath is now investing in key markets like Mexico that have a booming fintech industry. While not positioning themselves as an “impact investor”, they have always looked at finance and investment through the lens of creating real value. It’s also why I took an equity position in CentSai, a remarkable financial literacy education company founded by a diverse team and which has a unique capitalizing strategy and model that is leveraging tech and AI to bring quality financial education to schools, adult learning programs, and financial advisory networks.

Can you share some insights into how leading corporations and financial institutions are embedding sustainability at the core of their business strategies? What are the most impactful approaches you’re seeing in areas like gender equity, water security, and climate change mitigation?

Alix Lebec: Leading corporations and financial institutions are increasingly recognizing that sustainability is not just good for the planet—it’s good for business. The most impactful approaches I’ve seen focus on embedding sustainability across the entire business and value chain. Reckitt is one of LEBEC’s clients that is a great example of this. They are using their expertise and global reach in the household consumer goods space to drive measurable and sustainable value and impact across health, hygiene, and nutrition.

Other companies that are investing in women and diverse-led businesses and solutions driving inclusive growth and sustainable solutions across climate, AI, and economic upward mobility include Google, Canva, Starbucks, Microsoft, Ecolab, Patagonia, Chobani, Salesforce, Visa, MasterCard, and Morgan Stanley. Many listed above are also implementing water-use efficiency technologies and corporate water stewardship programs, and investing in education (including financial literacy) and affordable housing, alongside accelerating investments in sustainable ocean and conservation efforts to build a strong, inclusive, resilient, and net-zero economy.

The key is that these efforts are integrated—not treated as add-ons. Sustainability has to be woven into strategy, decision-making, and reporting.

In your role as a board member of iDE Global, what lessons have you learned about empowering local entrepreneurship and catalyzing economic development in emerging markets?

Alix Lebec: Something I have learned throughout my 22-year long career is that entrepreneurship and private capital are instrumental in leveling the playing field for underserved populations, and in accelerating climate action and economic equity. Launching and scaling solutions that will allow diverse entrepreneurs to fully exercise their economic power and create value is a very powerful force that can drive change. iDE Global’s success has only further proven to me that solutions are most effective when they are locally owned and led. By equipping entrepreneurs with tools, training, and access to capital, we unlock their ability to solve challenges within their own communities.

A critical lesson is that entrepreneurship thrives when ecosystems are in place to support it—markets, infrastructure, and financing mechanisms must work in tandem to catalyze growth.

As a woman leader in the male-dominated world of finance, what advice would you offer to other aspiring women who are seeking to make an impact in this industry?

Alix Lebec: It’s amazing to see women making strides in sustainable finance, but we still have a long way to go. Did you know that 58% of sustainability executives in major companies are women? That’s significantly higher than traditional finance sectors, which is encouraging. But in the broader financial industry, women only occupy around 29% of management positions in revenue-generating roles—key stepping stones to senior leadership. And by 2030, it’s projected that women will still hold just 28% of leadership roles in financial services. Clearly, we’re moving in the right direction, but we’re not there yet.

What’s exciting, though, is the growing recognition of the unique and diversified value women bring to leadership. Research shows that companies with women in executive roles tend to be more profitable and often achieve higher sustainability scores. Women-led ventures are also driving some of the most impactful solutions in sustainable finance—proof that diversity isn’t just a moral imperative; it’s smart business.

For women entering this space, I always say: embrace the unique perspective you bring. Your lived experiences and insights are so valuable, especially in tackling interconnected issues like climate change, gender equity, and economic inclusion. Seek out mentors, build relationships with like-minded peers, and don’t hesitate to advocate for yourself. Organizations that genuinely value diversity will see your strengths and make space for your voice.

Other women in this space who I am honored to call my peers, mentors, and inspiration include Julia Wilkinson, Managing Partner and Chief Investment Officer, LEBEC; Sandra Sainz of Sonen Capital; Eva Yazhari of Beyond Capital Ventures; Jacqueline Novogratz of Acumen; Sallie Krawcheck of Ellevest; and Wenyi Cai of Polymath Ventures.

Most importantly, keep learning. This field is evolving so quickly, and staying ahead of the curve will help you lead with confidence. Remember, you’re part of a much bigger movement, and every step forward contributes to creating a more equitable and sustainable future.

How have you personally navigated the challenge of work-life balance throughout your career? What strategies have you found most effective in maintaining your well-being while driving ambitious goals?

Alix Lebec: Work-life balance is an ongoing journey, but I’ve learned that it’s essential to prioritize what fuels you. I set boundaries to create space for reflection, creativity, family, and self-care. Practicing mindfulness and carving out time for things that bring joy helps me recharge and stay grounded. Dance in particular is a passion of mine and I have had to be very intentional about creating the space to pursue my dance journey. I practice free style house and I push myself to get in a few hours every week, whether that’s dancing in my garage by myself, hopping on a Zoom class with my instructor, or finding a studio when I have business trips in New York or Europe. Having that creative outlet really re-energizes me and helps clear my head after a long day or week.

Looking ahead, where do you see the greatest opportunities for women leaders to make a mark in the impact investing and sustainable finance landscape?

Alix Lebec: I want to see a narrative where women do not need to justify why they should be at the decision-making and cap table. Why wouldn’t we have women shaping how finance and capital play an instrumental role in building a strong, resilient global economy? The data is clear: companies with diverse leadership perform better, investments in women yield higher returns, and gender-inclusive decision-making drives more sustainable and equitable outcomes.

Let’s harness the possibilities that come from having diversified leaders at the table who will collectively bring a fuller, more creative view to the table, and one best qualified to mitigate risk and generate immense value. We tend to look at the world through a very simplified and narrow lens which clearly isn’t serving us well. On one hand, we have record levels of wealth, resources, ingenuity, technologies, and possibilities; on the other hand, record levels of inequality, geopolitical conflicts, declining mental health, and an escalating climate crisis. What does that tell us? Real value creation will come from innovation and leadership that reflects our reality and the solutions we need. Who are we building this world and global economy for? It needs to be all of us.

I’m very excited by the record levels of financial resources available to fuel a more diversified and grounded entrepreneurial ecosystem—one that is relentless and tenacious in delivering real solutions to the challenges faced by everyday families and communities. And let’s be clear: we can’t achieve this without women.

Lastly, is there a specific mantra, quote, or affirmation that you hold close to your heart?

Alix Lebec: “We already have all the resources we need to solve the world’s biggest problems. We just need to act. Empathy, sustainability, and kindness can co-exist with delivering financial value to all stakeholders.”

This encapsulates my belief in the power of innovative finance and collaboration to create lasting, positive change in the world.

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Emily Sprinkle, also known as Emma Loggins, is a designer, marketer, blogger, and speaker. She is the Editor-In-Chief for Women's Business Daily where she pulls from her experience as the CEO and Director of Strategy for Excite Creative Studios, where she specializes in web development, UI/UX design, social media marketing, and overall strategy for her clients.

Emily has also written for CNN, Autotrader, The Guardian, and is also the Editor-In-Chief for the geek lifestyle site FanBolt.com