Investment for a Regenerative Economy

The Investment for a Regenerative Economy course, offered by the Capital Institute, is a four-week, fully online program designed to challenge conventional "sustainable finance" frameworks—such as ESG and impact investing—by equipping learners with the mindset and tools for advancing true regenerative investment. Grounded in the Capital Institute’s 8 Principles of Regenerative Vitality, the course engages participants in reimagining finance not as a technical or incremental fix, but as a system poised for transformation to serve the long-term well-being of people, planet, and business. This course is best suited for investment professionals, policymakers, entrepreneurs, students, and changemakers seeking a systemic approach to finance and economic system redesign. There are no prerequisites, and the next cohort will be held in Spring 2026.

Core Content

The curriculum takes participants on a paradigm-shifting journey beyond the limitations of ESG ratings and sustainable finance, examining the fundamental failures of current financial systems and uncovering pathways forward through regenerative theory. Learners explore the 8 Principles of Regenerative Vitality and develop an understanding of how living systems science applies to economics and investment. The course features live lectures hosted by John Fullerton, supported by readings and curated content, as well as module-specific Discovery Dialogues with global thought leaders. Key themes include the demystification of finance, diagnosis of predatory economic structures, and actionable frameworks for regenerative investing. Participants collaborate in Practice Labs—facilitated group sessions designed for reimagining and redesigning the future of financial systems—culminating in actionable concepts that bridge theory and practice.

Key Skills

Participants develop the ability to critically assess and move beyond sustainable finance paradigms such as ESG and impact investing, applying systems thinking and regenerative principles to real-world investment challenges. The course fosters skills in identifying systemic failures in finance, using holistic approaches to evaluate investments, and leading or contributing to the redesign of economic systems around principles of health, resilience, and equity. Through live dialogue and collaborative practice, learners enhance their capacities for deep listening, dialogue facilitation, group problem-solving, and applying living systems frameworks to investment strategies. The program encourages a reflective, mindful approach, inviting participants to question core assumptions and expand their strategic thinking for transformative change.

Target Learners

This course is tailored for a diverse international audience, including investment professionals, impact investors, financial system policymakers, entrepreneurs, and students curious about new economic models. It is particularly valuable for those dissatisfied with the limits of ESG and traditional responsible investing approaches and seeking bold, system-level innovation. The global alumni community includes over 2,000 professionals and thought leaders from 53+ countries, providing robust opportunities for networking, co-learning, and continuing personal and professional growth after the course concludes.

Learning Format

Investment for a Regenerative Economy is delivered as a virtual cohort with weekly live sessions on Mondays (two hours each) and select interactive sessions on Tuesdays (90 minutes to two hours each) at 11:00 am ET. Each week features a live lecture, group dialogue, and Practice Labs for small-group collaboration. Mindful, facilitated conversations and access to Discovery Dialogues with sector leaders create a dynamic and supportive learning environment. All live sessions are recorded for asynchronous participation, ensuring flexibility for participants in different time zones. Students also join the With Life Community, an ongoing global network supporting the regenerative mindset beyond course completion. The program is designed for approximately 15 hours of engagement and awards a certificate of completion based on participation and understanding.

Additional Benefits

The course provides participants with transformative perspectives and practical frameworks that extend beyond sustainable finance, empowering them to become catalysts for economic and social renewal. Graduates gain access to the Capital Institute alumni network and With Life Community for global collaboration, resource sharing, and continued regenerative learning. Scholarships are available through the Generosity Fund to ensure broad access, and the curriculum is guided by John Fullerton—pioneer of Regenerative Economics who brings decades of Wall Street and systems-change expertise. Completing the course positions participants at the forefront of regenerative investment innovation, equipping them to lead organizational and sectoral transformation as the world seeks solutions for people, prosperity, and the planet.

Browse more ESG courses and certifications to enhance your skills and knowledge.