Key Takeaways from Nature Futures 25 

Nature Futures 25 brought together nature-based enterprises, serial entrepreneurs and investors to discuss the latest trends, challenges and opportunities for nature-based enterprises and nature-based solutions as we transition to a nature-positive economy. 

The event primarily focused on the new opportunities in financing nature and multi-actor collaboration for scaling and impact.

1. Nature is highly investable - here’s the proof!

Investors shared their experiences and successes from investing in nature. They recognised an increasing awareness of the scale of opportunity nature presents. Impact investors made clear that they are seeking businesses with strong return-on-investment models, and credible paths for high-growth companies like NatureMetrics that have the potential to reach billion-euro valuations. Financial institutions and accelerators offer broader financing options with case-studies presented across the spectrum, from small, grounded, community-focused nature-based enterprises to multi-million euro blended finance nature-based solutions projects. Nature credits were identified as an emerging area to watch, with high integrity being a key criterion.

2. Corporate VCs are emerging as major players.

Speakers noted a rise in interest from corporate venture capital funds, with interest driven by companies seeking to strengthen their own supply chain resilience and safeguard themselves against nature-related disruptions. These corporate VCs may invest in niche, highly relevant solutions that may not appeal to traditional investors but offer strategic value within their industries.

3. Value creation is central to unlocking capital.

Financial institutions, especially banks, must be able to demonstrate value creation to ensure healthy cash flow and meet their responsibilities to savers and investors. Clear, measurable value remains a key driver of investment in nature.

4. Tech can accelerate nature restoration.

Technology-driven businesses have the capacity to restore nature cost-efficiently and at scale. Solutions that can plant thousands of mangroves in minutes demonstrate how tech can unlock speed, precision, and affordability. As these tools become more accessible, they can encourage wider uptake of nature-based solutions.

5. Stronger policy support is needed.

An inconsistent regulatory environment and a lack of robust, stable policy frameworks reduce private sector investment in nature. This is particularly acute for investment in high-potential nature-based enterprises where business models may be grounded on emerging regulatory requirements. Investors need clear rules and predictable environments to commit capital with confidence. Consistent policy support can help unlock financing and create the conditions in which NbEs can thrive.

6. Co-creation and collaboration are essential.

Nature-based solutions operate in complex, interconnected systems that demand multi-stakeholder engagement. Their success depends on co-creation, collaboration, and partnership at different levels - within and across sectors. These relationships ultimately shape both the delivery and long-term sustainability of nature-based solutions.

You can read the event summary in the Resources section and access the session recordings on YouTube.