Driving Global Impact

through Adaptive Leadership

André Almeida Santos

With over 25 years of experience spanning development finance, investment management, and economic policy across three continents, I am committed to catalyzing transformational change through responsible investment and adaptive leadership. As a Harvard Kennedy School graduate with a Master in Public Administration, member of the BMW Foundation Responsible Leaders, and a Partner at Indico Capital Partners, I currently focus on Impact Investing, Regenerative frameworks, and Ocean Economy.

Learn more

The Future of Blue Economy

This conversation brings together experts to share their experiences in creating and supporting innovative companies within the blue economy — a sector focused on ocean sustainability, technology, and innovation.

In this video, André Almeida Santos — venture capitalist at Indico Capital Partners, where sustainability and the blue economy are key investment areas — shares his perspective on:

The most promising areas for investment in the blue economy.
The qualities and characteristics Indico values most in the startups they choose to support.

Planetiers World Gathering 2024

How sustainable investments shape the future of business. The debate addressed how investors and companies can generate a positive impact, while guaranteeing financial returns, in a global scenario that is increasingly oriented towards sustainability.

Speakers André de Almeida Santos, Partner at Indico Capital Partners, and Luis Gutman, Managing Partner da OW Ventures, share their perspectives on this balancing act for development.

Pensar Portugal

TV Show Pensar Portugal promotes a series of debates on major issues shaping the country. In each session, prominent figures from diverse sectors — such as the economy, culture, gastronomy, and science — share their perspectives and exchange ideas.

Attracting Investment:
The development of Portugal’s regions is closely linked to the strength of their local business networks. Conta Lá hosted a debate focused on the measures that can encourage investment and attract companies to different municipalities.
André Almeida Santos share the importance of investment into innovative entrepreneurial solutions as a driver of regional development and Social Mobility.

Planetiers World Gathering 2022

The From ESG to Impact Investing session, on October 26th at Planetiers World Gathering 2022 - the biggest event for sustainable innovation - where Andre de Almeida Santos, partner at Indico Capital show-cases how early-stage venture capital can finance impactful entreprises in the Ocean Economy, while generating market returns.

Focus Areas

Impact Investing & Blended Finance

I design values frameworks and responsible investment policies that integrate ESG principles with financial returns. My expertise spans blended finance solutions, mobilizing private capital for sustainable development, and structuring deals that create measurable social and environmental impact. At Harvard Kennedy School's Initiative for Responsible Investment, my research examines how institutional investors can promote Just Transitions—ensuring economic transformations leave no communities behind. Through BAngels Capital and personal investments, I provide seed financing and mentorship to impact-driven entrepreneurs.

Ocean & Blue Economy

As a Partner at Indico Capital Partners, I focus on venture impact investment into the Blue Economy to preserve ocean health while creating sustainable economic value. My work designing responsible investment policies and ESG frameworks helps ensure that capital flows toward marine conservation, sustainable fisheries, coastal resilience, and ocean-based climate solutions. This builds on my experience leading transformational strategies in emerging markets where coastal communities depend on healthy marine ecosystems for their livelihoods.

Adaptive Leadership

As a Teaching Assistant at Harvard Kennedy School's Center for Public Leadership, I work directly with Professor Ronald A. Heifetz teaching adaptive leadership frameworks to over 100 students. This methodology addresses complex systemic issues in organizations, governments, and economic transitions by building capacity to navigate uncertainty and drive transformation. Drawing from my decade coordinating cross-cultural teams across Africa, I coach leaders on how to mobilize stakeholders, manage competing values, and create lasting change. My approach helps build cohesive, inclusive organizations capable of delivering sustainable impact.

Engagement Opportunities

I am available for advisory, consulting, speaking engagements, and board positions with organizations committed to responsible investment, sustainable development, and adaptive leadership.