Do you have an idea for a business that’s going to save the planet? Well now there’s good news if you need capital to fund that idea.

Several venture capital firms have popped up over the last few years that are dedicated specifically to helping fund socially-minded entrepreneurs. These firms not only invest in high-tech ventures, but are also willing to consider unusual business models, such companies that have nonprofit arms.

A primary difference between traditional venture capitalists and social venture capitalists is that social VCs are willing to accept lower initial returns (about 15% per year verse 30%) and wait longer for exits (7-8 years verse 5-7 years).

Here’s a list of VC firms that specifically fund social enterprises
 

Underdog Ventures
Island Pond, Vermont
http://www.underdogventures.com

Root Capital
Cambridge, Massachusetts
http://www.rootcapital.org/

ShoreBank Pacific
Ilwaco, Washington
http://eco-bank.com/

TBL Capital
Sausalito, California
http://www.tblcapital.com/

Good Capital
San Francisco, California
http://www.goodcap.net