Big Path Capital is advancing a sustainable economy by connecting mission-driven companies and fund managers with mission-aligned investors. Join us on the journey to a better future that benefits everyone and the long term by signing up to receive our newsletter as well as announcements on our convenings and the latest news. Below is our latest issue. To receive the next newsletter directly in your inbox, sign up to join our online community here.
A Note From Patrick McDonald, Investment Banking Associate
Staying true to your principles is more powerful than we often realize. For me, Big Path Capital exemplifies what intentionality and commitment to values can build.
Since day one, Big Path has remained grounded in its principles, creating a sense of authenticity that truly stands out in our industry. In a new interview below, Michael Whelchel shares more on Big Path’s beginning and his hopeful vision for the future.
Big Path’s ecosystem of businesses, leaders, and communities embodies this commitment to core beliefs and models a values-driven approach. In a business world that is often shockingly lacking empathy and a commitment to a better world, Big Path and its partners prove that success doesn’t require compromise — it’s possible to build thriving, principled organizations that serve all stakeholders. That example inspires me daily and fuels my commitment to being the change that I want to see in the world.

New Norms and Rising Expectations: A Q&A with Michael Whelchel
Big Path Capital Co-Founder and Managing Partner Michael Whelchel is committed to challenging the status quo and raising expectations for how investment shapes an expansive economy founded on natural, social, and financial capital. Since its start in 2007, Big Path has worked with more than 220 impact and sustainable companies and funds and created a number of first-in-class initiatives. Additionally, the company hosts several in-person annual convenings, bringing together impact leaders to engage, learn, and forge a new path on critically important topics. In this new Q&A, Michael shares his views on the current environment for impact finance, why interconnectedness is critical for the field, and what he’s looking forward to. Read more.
What We’re Tracking
Charis Consumer Collaborative Scales Food Companies, for Impact | Ben Rudman of Charis Consumer Collaborative shares how the company is tackling the structural challenges in the food industry by partnering with visionary business leaders to democratize access to healthy, high-quality food products. Read more.
No Distractions, Just Action: Leading With Clarity in Uncertain Times | 1% for the Planet CEO Kate Williams reminds us that authentic leadership isn’t about having it all figured out—it’s about leading with purpose, especially when the path ahead is unclear. Read more.
Team Highlights
Join Our Sept. 4 Webinar, “Capital Chemistry: Partnering Your Way to a Successful Exit”
When Selina DeLangre, founder of Celtic Sea Salt, experienced a meteoric rise in sales, she felt it was time to bring in a capital and operating partner. The challenge? Finding someone who shared her mission and values. In a virtual fireside chat with Michael Whelchel on September 4 at 12 p.m. ET, Selina will share her process for striking a values-aligned capital partnership and how this powerful strategic union amplified her company’s growth. Register Now
Don’t Miss “First Dibs” Tickets for MO Summit 2026 (to Save More Than $750)!
Registration is live for MO Summit 2026, which will take place March 16-18 in Asheville, North Carolina. Be one of the first to secure a ticket and save more than $750 off the full price! This powerful annual event brings together business leaders with a shared vision of capitalism, aimed at amplifying our collective positive impact. If you’re a CEO at a high-growth, positive-impact company using the power and creativity of business as a force for good, join us in Asheville next March. Learn More & Register

Applications for the MO 100 Top Impact CEO Ranking 2026 Are Now Open
Join the ranks of the top impact CEOs and be celebrated at the 2026 MO Summit! The MO 100 Top Impact CEO Ranking celebrates executives who catalyze positive environmental and social impact through the high-growth companies they lead. The list reflects the growing relevance of leaders who prioritize a broader set of stakeholders, including the environment, their employees, their customers, their shareholders, and their communities. Apply by Nov. 14
Big Path Among the Finalists for Naturally Network’s ConsciousCPG Awards
We were honored to be a finalist for Naturally Network’s 2025 inaugural ConsciousCPG Awards! The awards celebrate organizations and individuals demonstrating exceptional commitment to purpose-driven business practices, sustainability, and positive industry impact. Nominated in the “Capital” category, Big Path was the sole investment bank recognized for our approach to capital that supports sustainable, inclusive, and purpose-led growth to catalyze systemic change.
We are proud to be among the amazing list of companies (check them out here) and part of the movement toward a more just and regenerative industry. Learn More
Meet Us on the Path
Take a look at where you can find our team in the coming months:
- September 16-18, 2025: Consumer Impact Summit in Bentonville, AR
- March 17-18, 2026: MO Summit 2026 in Asheville, NC
- April 21-23, 2026: Champions Retreat 2026 in Milwaukee, WI

