Marie Weijler joins Nexus for Development as Head of Impact Investing to drive climate funding to SMEs across Southeast Asia and Bangladesh
Phnom Penh, Cambodia — September 9, 2024 — Nexus for Development is excited to announce the appointment of Marie Weijler, a Forbes 30 Under 30 honoree, as the new Head of Impact Investing. In her new role, Marie will oversee investment and portfolio management for the Pioneer Facility, Nexus’ flagship fund focused on debt financing for innovative climate projects that serve women and other marginalized people across Southeast Asia and Bangladesh.
Marie brings a wealth of experience to Nexus, having spent over nine years in venture capital and start-up business development. At the young age of 31, she made history by becoming the youngest female VC partner in the Benelux region during her tenure at TIN Capital. Prior to joining TIN Capital, she served as Investment Manager at Cottonwood Technology Fund, a U.S.-based venture capital firm specializing in deep tech and climate technology.
“We are thrilled to welcome Marie to our team,” said Nexus for Development’s Executive Director Laura Alsenas. “Her impressive track record in venture capital and her commitment to advancing climate innovation make her the perfect fit to drive impactful investments in the region and support our fundraising initiatives.”
Marie has been widely recognized as a leading figure in the venture capital industry, earning accolades such as Forbes’ 30 Under 30 and Venture Capital Journal’s 40 Rising Stars Under 40. Throughout her career, she was co-responsible for raising $85 million for Cottonwood Technology Fund III and $25 million for European Cyber Tech Fund V. Her strong academic foundation includes an MBA from the Quantic School of Business and Technology (USA), a Master of Laws degree in Corporate Law from Leiden University (Netherlands), and an MA in European Studies (Social & Economic Policy) from KU Leuven (Belgium).
At Nexus, Marie will lead the growth of the Pioneer Facility, which offers essential debt financing to growth-stage climate ventures with significant social impact. Her leadership will be crucial in optimizing the fund’s portfolio, driving the expansion of high-impact projects, and advancing Nexus’ goal to foster sustainable development and tackle climate challenges in Southeast Asia and Bangladesh.
“I am excited to join Nexus for Development and contribute to their mission to urgently mobilize carbon and impact finance to scale enterprises in Asia that benefit both people and planet.” said Marie Weijler. “There is immense potential in this region to foster innovative projects that can make a real difference. I look forward to working with the team to unlock new opportunities that drive lasting impact.”
Nexus for Development is currently fundraising an additional $6 million for the Pioneer Facility to drive access to finance for an additional 32 enterprises by 2027.