Oregon BEST

About The Fund

Oregon BEST, known as VertueLab since 2018, is an independent non-profit organization that has been driving innovation and supporting entrepreneurs since 2008. They are recognized for making strategic, early-stage investments in clean technology startups and collaborations with small Oregon businesses and universities. The fund is specifically designed to accelerate the development of clean tech innovations aimed at reversing the climate crisis by reducing greenhouse gas emissions. With a commitment to catalyzing change within the cleantech ecosystem, they have supported over 80 companies and leveraged more than $600 million in follow-on funding. VertueLab's impact includes creating upwards of 690 jobs through their investments totaling over $9.5 million. They run two key accelerator programs, the Cascadia CleanTech Accelerator and 45Camp, which equip founders with mentorship, curriculum, connections, and necessary funding opportunities. Their Climate Impact Fund I, propelled by philanthropic contributions, targets high-potential, early-stage cleantech startups. VertueLab also aims to build sustainable communities through the deployment of novel clean energy solutions in the Pacific Northwest, as detailed in their white papers and reports on the current state of the climate tech ecosystem. They actively seek out companies that not only show promise of significant climate impact but also can benefit from the support networks they offer. The firm's portfolio is a testament to its mission to support people reimagining the planet and contributing to building a sustainable future.