ESG Investing
Leading the lower middle-market starts with our own commitment.
We have joined 
to support an initiative that impacts 100% of us.
ESG is integrated into our underwriting ecosystem
Tree Line has implemented a robust ESG policy into its investment processes and also has become a signatory to the United Nations Principles for Responsible Investment. We screen every transaction for positive and negative ESG factors.
For our full ESG policy, please click here.
Negative Screen
Companies that are in violation of our ESG policy due to potential harm being caused by certain products, services or operating procedures to the environment or society.
Positive Screen
We seek to align our portfolio with borrowers that overlap with our corporate ESG principles and values. Specifically, these companies operate sustainably, maintain diversity or promote positive ESG best practices.
Diligence Escalation
Certain investments will require additional diligence to determine their fit within our ESG guidelines. Our Investment and Risk Management committees are responsible for the evaluation of such escalated issues.
Our Impact
Corporate Initiatives include Tree Line’s corporate capital commitments and volunteerism to environmental and social causes. Tree Line is a member of 1% for the Planet and contributes 1% of its management company revenue to environmental non-profits and causes. This contribution is accounted for in both dollars and volunteerism. Additionally, Tree Line will provide employees with an opportunity donate one day per month to volunteer and work with approved non-profits and organizations.
Environmental Change
Tree Line is a member of 1% for the Planet – contributing 1% of our management company revenue annually to approved environmental partners.
Social Change
Tree Line has committed resources to social reform initiatives where we work with non-profit partners focused on advancing key social issues. We’re combining our resources as a firm with individual contributions made as team members to create an impact.
In May, during the COVID crisis, Tree Line’s employees, with a matching contribution from Tree Line, donated over $58,000 to non-profit organizations capable of making an immediate impact to those affected by COVID-19.
Mentorship Programs
Tree Line partnered with Upward Bound programs in communities local to the firm’s San Francisco and New York offices. Upward Bound is a federally funded educational program, providing opportunities for high school students to succeed in their pre-collegiate academic performance and ultimately in their higher education pursuits. Projects funded under the Upward Bound program serve the following groups: (i) high school students from low-income families, (ii) high school students from families in which neither parent holds a bachelor’s degree, and (iii) high school students that have an academic need for Upward Bound services. Each Upward Bound program serves a specific geographic area and specific high schools in that area.
