Investments
Investments that accelerate Ottawa’s transition to an equitable, carbon-neutral future.
OCAF is funded by a $20 million endowment from the federal government through the Low Carbon Canada Cities (LC3) initiative, managed by the Federation of Canadian Municipalities. The income from the endowment covers our operating costs and supports a limited granting program for local projects, enabling us to meet our mission through responsible and impact investing.
Our Investing Ethos
OCAF’s long-term investment goal is to generate sufficient returns through prudent and professional investment management to support steady and reliable granting, cover operational costs, and preserve endowed capital. In line with its mission to drive low-carbon solutions and promote a sustainable and inclusive economy, OCAF aims to invest sustainably, recognizing the risks posed by climate change and the opportunities stemming from investing in green and transition technologies.
OCAF believes that responsible corporate behaviour regarding environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors positively impacts long-term financial performance. OCAF strives to select external investment managers that meaningfully incorporate ESG considerations into their investment decisions. OCAF aspires to move towards an investment portfolio that does not have any exposure to fossil fuel producers. In the interim, OCAF shall not invest in any investment fund having an initial exposure to fossil fuel producers of more than 10% of its portfolio. Furthermore, OCAF and its providers will actively work towards reducing and eliminating this exposure over time.
OCAF will also allocate up to 15% of its endowment to direct impact investments, which will be made with the goal of generating positive social or environmental impacts as well as a financial return.
Direct Impact Investing
Up to 15% of OCAF’s endowment will be allocated to direct impact investing, with a focus on GHG emission reductions and community benefits. Impact investment is defined as intentional investments of capital in assets and organizations that generate positive social or environmental impacts, as well as a financial return.
OCAF works with investment partners to identify critical needs and opportunities to scale up low-carbon solutions. Over time, our direct impact investing will inform our grants and programming, while our grants and programs will help identify and unlock new investment opportunities.
We’re on the lookout for direct impact investments that:
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