Welcome to Episode 87 of the Investing in Impact podcast. Today, I’m joined by Dr. Andy Kuper, Founder and CEO of LeapFrog Investments, a pioneering firm that has reshaped how global capital can drive profit with purpose.
Since launching the firm in 2007, Kuper has led with a bold vision: to deliver "Profit with Purpose" by investing in businesses that generate strong returns while solving real-world challenges across Asia and Africa.
📈 Impact at Scale: 537 Million Lives Reached
Today, LeapFrog’s portfolio companies serve over 537 million people, providing access to essential services like healthcare, financial tools, and climate solutions.
Of those reached, 359 million are emerging consumers, many of whom are gaining access to formal financial and health services for the first time.
Beyond reach, LeapFrog’s investments have supported over 241,000 jobs and livelihoods in more than 37 countries, contributing to inclusive economic development at scale.
💸 Billions Raised, Sustainable Growth Delivered
LeapFrog has secured nearly $3 billion in capital commitments from some of the world’s leading financial institutions.
The firm typically invests $20–75 million in high-growth companies led by exceptional teams, targeting influential minority or majority stakes.
These portfolio companies have achieved an average annual growth rate of 23% since investment—proving that social impact and financial success are not mutually exclusive.
🏆 Global Recognition for Global Impact
LeapFrog has received international acclaim for its transformative approach. Fortune named it one of the Top 5 Companies to Change the World, alongside Apple and Novartis—making it the first private investment firm to earn that recognition.
Dr. Kuper has been honored worldwide, including being appointed an Officer of the Order of Australia in 2022 for distinguished service to impact investing and financial inclusion.
🎓 Scholar, Author, and Advocate
Originally from South Africa and now an Australian citizen, Andy Kuper holds a Ph.D. from the University of Cambridge and has held academic roles at Harvard, Cambridge, and Columbia.
He’s the author of two books on globalization and governance and has co-authored publications with Nobel laureates and international leaders.
📊 Leading the Way in Impact Measurement
LeapFrog is not only a pioneer in impact investing but also a leader in measuring and reporting impact. The firm is a signatory to the UN Principles for Responsible Investment, earning their highest A+ rating.
It also plays a leading role in advancing industry standards as a founding Investors Council Member of the GIIN and a contributor to the Impact Management Project.
🚀 Aiming to Impact One Billion Lives
With a mission to reach one billion people through the power of capital markets, LeapFrog Investments continues to raise the bar for what’s possible in private equity and impact investing.
By combining rigorous financial discipline with a deep commitment to social good, LeapFrog proves that capital can be a catalyst for lasting, systemic change—especially in the places that need it most.
