As inequality deepens, more investors are using lens-based strategies to understand how capital affects different communities and where that unlocks new opportunities. While gender lens investing has gained traction, applying an LGBTQI+ lens remains overlooked, despite its urgency.
In this article, we explore what an LGBTQI+ lens investing or queer investing lens is, why it matters, and how investors can meaningfully integrate it.
What is LGBTQI+ lens investing?
It’s an investment approach that actively considers the rights, needs, and experiences of LGBTQI+ people, not only to avoid harm, but to unlock new business and customer segments. It’s about recognizing systemic exclusion in areas such as housing, healthcare, employment, and finance, and addressing the structural barriers that lead to disproportionate outcomes.
“If you’re not asking questions about LGBTQI+ inclusion, you’re not seeing the full picture, and your capital might be reinforcing exclusion, whether you mean to or not.”
– Kelly Robbin, Associate Partner, Sagana
Why now?
LGBTQI+ communities face structural barriers to finance, employment, and public services, not just as a human rights issue, but as a market blind spot. These barriers limit growth, innovation, and access to untapped talent and customer segments.
By 2030, LGBTQI+ lens investing will be even more critical as regulatory frameworks expand to include broader inclusion metrics, giving early movers a distinct advantage. Demographic shifts will also play a role; Gen Z, the most openly LGBTQI+ generation, will dominate both the workforce and consumer markets, making inclusive companies more competitive. At the same time, capital will increasingly seek deeper, intersectional impact as investors recognize that climate, equity, and social justice are inextricably linked.
What can investors do today?
- Ask the right question: Collecting data about who identifies as LGBTQI+ can be dangerous or illegal. Instead, focus on asking how portfolio companies can be safe and inclusive places to work, and can welcome a broad range of customers. Make sure you also ask yourself about how your investment process can be as open and inclusive as possible.
- Update your due diligence: Embed LGBTQI+ worker and customer safety in your ESG screens, risk frameworks, and investment criteria.
- Build safe, local partnerships: Work with organizations and experts that understand the local risks and realities. Context matters deeply.
- Fund what already works: Many community-led enterprises and intermediaries are already doing this work, but they remain undercapitalized. Seek them out and support them.
- Be visible: Signal your values. Publicly supporting inclusive investing can create ripple effects across your portfolio and peer networks.
LGBTQI+ lens investing will continue to shape the investment landscape. This is not about rainbow-washing. It’s about smart, ethical capital allocation that uncovers new opportunities, reduces risk and improves equity.
