The Catalist: A New Growth Partner for ESG Startups

The Catalist, launched in May 2025, helps early-stage ESG startups grow without upfront funding or giving up equity. It offers hands-on support, including market intelligence, product clarity, sales development, and investor readiness. The flexible model ensures sustainable growth, empowering purpose-driven businesses to scale and secure funding on their own terms.

The Catalist, a new growth partner for early-stage ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) startups, has officially launched, offering a unique model that is transforming how sustainability-driven businesses can scale. Founded with a clear vision to empower purpose-driven businesses, The Catalist is already making waves in the sustainability sector by offering hands-on support to founders without requiring upfront funding or giving away equity too soon.

For many early-stage sustainability businesses, the lack of access to substantial commercial resources has hindered their growth potential. The Catalist aims to change this narrative by embedding a comprehensive go-to-market engine into these companies, giving them the tools and support they need to scale fast and sustainably. Through this approach, The Catalist enables these businesses to progress without waiting for investment to materialise, which can often be a lengthy and uncertain process.

A new model for growth

The Catalist’s approach goes beyond traditional advisory services. The team doesn’t just offer guidance but actively steps in to fix what isn’t working, providing solutions that are critical to scaling. From data-driven market intelligence and product clarity to the development of a sales engine and preparation for future funding, The Catalist covers all aspects of growth. Founders are able to build and grow their businesses as if they’ve already secured the necessary funding, thus avoiding the common pitfalls of early-stage startup struggles.

Paul Rees, Founding Partner and CRO of The Catalist, shares: “We don’t just advise. We get in, fix the bits that aren’t working, and build what’s missing. It’s everything you'd expect from an angel or Series A, but you don’t have to wait for the money to show up.”

The Catalist’s model is flexible, adjusting to each business's specific needs. By combining retainers, revenue shares, and equity options, they ensure that even companies with limited cash flow can access the growth support they need. The flexibility of the model provides ESG startups with the essential tools to grow rapidly while maintaining control over their equity.

Helping ESG businesses grow and raise smart

In a landscape where funding is often difficult to secure, The Catalist ensures that ESG startups are not left behind. Their model is already proving successful, with early clients from a range of industries including tech platforms, biodiversity ventures, and sustainable drink brands. These businesses are not just surviving; they are thriving, building momentum, and outperforming the market.

Nathan Hallmark, Founding Partner and CEO, explains: “We’re backing founders who are solving real problems and giving them a chance to win. This isn’t theory. It’s traction, momentum, and a clear path to funding. And for me, it’s about doing the most meaningful work of my career, helping build businesses that leave the world better than we found it.”

The Catalist is not just about providing services; it’s about making a tangible impact on the world. Their goal is to empower businesses that are solving significant global challenges, offering them the opportunity to grow without compromising their values. With this founder-first model, The Catalist is set to become a key player in driving the future of sustainable business growth.

About The Catalist

The Catalist partners with ESG and sustainability startups to provide data-driven strategies, product clarity, sales execution, and investor readiness. The model is built on a flexible, founder-first approach, ensuring that companies get the support they need without having to give up control. Designed by commercial operators, The Catalist is committed to helping businesses scale efficiently and sustainably, offering a path to growth that aligns with their values.