Etcho, an innovative investment application focused on the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), has successfully completed its pre-seed funding round, securing £279,000 from angel investors and the crowdfunding platform Crowdcube.
The app empowers users to select the SDGs that resonate with them, enabling them to align their investments with their values while gaining insight into the social and environmental implications of their choices.
In an exclusive interview, Charlie French, co-founder of Etcho, emphasized that this platform distinguishes itself from existing solutions. “Unlike other applications that allow for investment in sustainable funds without giving users a choice regarding specific companies or investment amounts, we prioritize transparency and personal agency,” he explained.
French highlighted the challenges inherent in traditional ESG funds, which may still include investments in sectors such as oil and tobacco. “Our mission is to empower individuals to make informed decisions, to educate themselves, and to take meaningful action,” he added.
He noted a noticeable uptick in retail investors entering the stock market, particularly among younger demographics. “The younger generation is increasingly interested in sustainable finance and making responsible financial choices. We aim to provide everyone with the tools and information they need to understand the impact of their investments,” French stated.
Co-founder Liall Medina mentioned their strategic approach of building the platform from the ground up. “While we’re focusing on stock investments for now, we are open to exploring fund options in the future. We want to listen to what resonates with our user base and adapt accordingly,” he said.
He further commented on the current investment landscape, where fiduciary responsibilities often prioritize profits over social or environmental considerations. “Our goal is to upend this norm by offering transparency that allows users to evaluate financial opportunities through ethical lenses, aligning their investments with their values,” Medina remarked.
With the successful completion of the pre-seed funding, Etcho is now entering its development phase, with plans to launch a minimal viable product in the second quarter.