Bates Wells has advised Soros Economic Development Fund on its investment into EcoEnterprises Fund IV, a women-owned and women-led fund manager. EcoEnterprises Fund IV backs bioeconomy companies that preserve natural capital, combat climate change, and promote inclusive and sustainable development. Operating across South and Central America, the fund targets key sectors including non-timber forest products, circular economy, regenerative agriculture, organic foods, and climate technology.
Founded in 1997, the Soros Economic Development Fund is the impact investment arm of Open Society Foundations. It has committed over $550 million in debt, equity, and guarantees to businesses, funds, platforms, and non-profits across geographies and sectors that advance the mission of the Foundations.
Nirav Patel, Partner, and Leela Fair, Senior Associate, from the Bates Wells corporate team, advised on the investment.
Nirav Patel, Corporate Partner, commented: “It has been a pleasure to assist Nicole, Victoria and the rest of the Soros Economic Development Fund team with this investment. It reflects the ever-growing importance of investing in biodiversity and climate impact, something that aligns with our values here at Bates Wells.”
Nicole Stallworth, General Counsel at the Soros Economic Development Fund, said “Working with Nirav Patel and the Bates Wells team (particularly Leela and Ruth) has been exceptional. Their legal insight, responsiveness, and practical problem-solving has made them invaluable partners on our transaction.”
To read more about the transaction, you can access the press release on the Soros Economic Development Fund’s website here.