Regeneration.VC, a US$45 million early-stage venture capital fund, has formed a fund to invest in circular and regenerative materials, brands, and reuse technologies.

Regeneration.VC is investing in three core themes: design (packaging and materials), use (products and brands), and reuse (reverse logistics and marketplaces), recognizing that reimagining apparel, food, and consumer packaged goods (CPG) represent a $4.5 trillion opportunity to ensure our species' and planet's survival.

North American and European family offices, foundations, and institutional investors participated as limited partners in the $45 million inaugural fund to supercharge consumer-driven climate innovation.

General partners Dan Fishman and Michael Smith have launched their first fund. Regeneration.VC has Leonardo DiCaprio as a strategic advisor and limited partner.

DiCaprio said that sustainability continues to be a hot topic. They require forward-thinking ideas that improve the planet's performance in quantifiable ways. It's time for customers to feel good about their purchases, and businesses must rise to the occasion – every piece of food, every t-shirt, and every product matters. He is eager to work with Regeneration.VC to accelerate these solutions and begin to address the climate crisis.

Upcycled carbon, next-generation materials, and circular commerce are all part of the current portfolio.

Smith said that their portfolio firms are addressing humanity's greatest challenge: the climate emergency. It is no longer an option to abandon the linear economy in favor of a circular and regenerative model. Their objective is to empower all consumers in the struggle to reclaim the planet. To be successful, they must all work together.

The advisory board includes Bonobos creator Andy Dunn and UN environmental ambassador Petra Nemcova, in addition to strategic advisors.