Hot Topics

• Addressing matters of financial inclusion and financial well-being 
• Double-bottom-line funds which focus on impact and profitability 
• Incubators and accelerators

Please see Definitions for detailed definitions of various terms used here. Please also refer to the Resources page for recommendations on longevity-related research labs and institutes, books, podcasts, academic papers, blogs, and press articles.

A financial revolution is taking place around the globe, powered by mobile phones, access to new data, technological innovations, and changing mindsets of users of financial services. We are witnessing the emergence of ‘for-profit, mission-driven’ financial technology (FinTech) players focused on enabling greater financial inclusion and well-being. These companies mitigate friction by designing novel products or following innovative business strategies. As a result, they are improving the financial health of households and organizations worldwide.

Venture Capitalists (VCs) and accelerators are critical in supporting startups in promoting financial health and well-being. Startups are constantly disrupting different industries and offering tailored solutions for unique problems. Most VC funds focus on return and profits, while a few focus on impact alone. We are seeing an increase in a new breed of VC funds that are double-bottom-line funds – focused on impact and profitability. Several accelerators have also been launched, funded by foundations and philanthropists, to support the startup ecosystem. See examples under Useful References below. 

Most VC funds and accelerators in the longevity domain focus on the use of technology to increase human lifespan and healthspan. However, in recent years, there is increasing interest in investing in companies promoting financial health and well-being.

The majority of FinTech companies target their solutions toward promoting the financial health and financial well-being of the broader customer segment of working adults. Additional focus is needed on building solutions for older adults in the 50+ age group. Startups can build solutions tailored for this age group, including offering affordable money management tools, learning new skills, managing physical and mental health via apps, and helping develop community and awareness networks.

Listed below are a few foundations, non-profits, accelerators, and VC funds that are supporting research and funding innovative solutions for the financial well-being of older adults and are successfully creating positive change

• Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation
• Rockefeller Foundation
• FMO Group
• Omidyar Network
• Flourish Ventures
• IFC (part of World Bank Group)
• Longevity Tech in Israel
• Tsao Foundation, Singapore
• Core Innovation VC

Disclaimer: This is not financial advice, and we do not have a financial interest in any of the above organizations.