Our Impact | January Capital

OUR IMPACT / ESG

Sustainable growth through inclusive capital

The Asia Pacific region stands at the cusp of unprecedented technological transformation, and we believe inclusive capital can ensure this growth benefits all.

We believe we are in the early innings of a multi-decade innovation transformation. Several unique factors have created a “golden age” for digital transformation in the Asia Pacific region, generating a flywheel for entrepreneurship in January Capital’s target geographies. Whilst the growing talent pool and established ecosystem presents compelling investment opportunities, we must ensure this progress doesn’t exacerbate rising inequality.

January Capital serves as a supportive capital partner for founders throughout their journey, leveraging our data-driven approach to enable technology-led companies that will power growth within our core markets of focus.This transformation holds particular promise for Southeast Asia, yet the region may not benefit equitably if skilled labour remains predominantly located elsewhere. By providing inclusive capital at critical growth stages and actively managing our portfolio companies, we aim to promote sustainable development that leads to higher economic productivity.

Through this approach, we can foster meaningful economic uplift by creating quality jobs and driving innovation in high-value sectors like technology across Southeast Asia.

RESPONSIBLE INVESTMENT FRAMEWORK

Our commitment to responsible investment in Asia

Since our inception as a firm, we have prioritized applying a responsible investment lens and developed a responsible investment framework to ensure our capital produces positive outcomes in the communities we invest in across Asia. From being one of the first early-stage venture capital firms in the Asia-Pacific region to be a signatory of the Principles for Responsible Investment (PRI), we continue to refine our responsible investment approach across our core investment strategies.

Download our UNPRI report

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Impact measurement

By enhancing the availability of inclusive capital at critical junctures and actively managing investee companies, we aim to foster sustainable growth that translates into higher economic productivity. Our efforts are designed to create decent jobs and spur innovation in high-value sectors like technology, aligning with UNSDG 5, 8, 9, 10 & 16 which promotes sustained, inclusive, and sustainable economic growth.

Quality Job Creation

Fostering diverse employment opportunities.

Improved Governance

Strengthening tech companies for long-term success.

Enhanced Well-being

Empowering individuals through higher incomes and access to advanced technologies.

We are committed to dismantling structural barriers that hinder equitable growth, ensuring that all communities can share in the economic opportunities generated by technological progress. Together, we can create a future where everyone benefits from Southeast Asia's burgeoning digital landscape.

Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

Gender equality

Decent work and economic growth

Industry, innovation and infrastructure

Reduced inequalities

Peace and justice strong institutions

CASE STUDY

Akulaku: Unlocking access to credit and financial products for Southeast Asia's underbanked population

Banking and lending penetration in Southeast Asia remains relatively low compared to developed markets – over 70% of Southeast Asia's population is either unbanked or underbanked.

Akulaku, a leading digital banking and finance platform in Southeast Asia, has demonstrated a growing commitment to closing this gap. Akulaku enables individuals and businesses to achieve their financial goals while driving economic growth in the region.

Since our investment into Akulaku they have originated over USD10 billion in loans to more than 35 million credit users

CASE STUDY

Sleek EV: Driving Sustainable Mobility in Southeast Asia

Sleek EV is leading the charge in transforming Southeast Asia’s transportation landscape with its affordable and eco-friendly electric motorcycles, beginning with Thailand. By providing a cleaner alternative to traditional motorbikes, Sleek EV is addressing the region’s pressing need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and urban pollution.

By aligning with government initiatives across Southeast Asia to transition to electric mobility, Its innovative designs and IoT-enabled vehicles not only reduce environmental impact but also offer an affordable solution for millions of urban commuters, paving the way for greener and more sustainable cities.

Since our investment, Sleek EV has deployed thousands of electric two-wheelers, cutting CO2 emissions by 63.3 tons, conserving over 11,000 liters of fuel, and achieving an environmental impact equivalent to planting 6,300 trees.

CASE STUDY

Peddlr: Empowering Micro-Merchants with Digital Tools for Sustainable Growth

Peddlr is transforming the micro-retail sector in Southeast Asia by providing a free, mobile-first POS system that empowers small businesses to digitize operations and improve efficiency. Its offline functionality ensures accessibility even in areas with limited internet connectivity, bridging the digital divide for underserved communities.

By enabling micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to streamline inventory management, track expenses, and access additional revenue streams like bill payments and e-load services, Peddlr promotes financial inclusion and economic resilience.

Since its inception, Peddlr has supported over 1 million micro-retailers, helping them transition to digital platforms and increase their profitability. This impact strengthens local economies, reduces inefficiencies in the informal sector, and promotes sustainable growth for grassroots businesses.