Mariana Costa, principal at EDP Ventures, is one of our top 50 Emerging Leaders in corporate venturing for 2026.
Mariana Costa now has around 12 years at EDP Ventures, the strategic investment arm of Portuguese energy utility EDP, under her belt, and there is one key quality she believes has stood her in good stead.
“I always try to establish a very close relationship with my portfolio companies,” she says. “We invest worldwide, so it is not always easy to be a lunch away. But I am always available to bridge and to solve whatever needs to be solved. I always try to build proximity and interest, and a close relationship with my companies and my business units.”
Following a master’s degree in finance, Costa took an analyst position in a family office. She joined EDP Ventures as an investment analyst in 2013 and has since risen through the ranks to investment director and now principal, taking board seats or observer roles at portfolio companies including Captura, Splight, Net2Grid and Mixergy in the process.
“I always try to establish a very close relationship with my portfolio companies. I always try to build proximity and interest and a close relationship with my companies and my business units”
Costa’s current role involves her leading client solutions investments and divestments, concentrating on technology areas such as energy efficiency, industrial heat electrification and carbon removal, sourcing and executing deals, and helping to define the investment and divestment strategy in that area.
Ultimately, Costa sees her role as a connector between EDP and the startup world. Being able to be a bridge between the corporate and startups boosting renewable energy and optimising the grid can make a meaningful difference.
“I really aim to continue to contribute to a net-zero future and, in my current position at EDP, to be able to source great startups that deliver not only financial value, but also clear strategic impact to EDP,” she says.
“What makes this sector special is that it addresses one of today’s biggest needs. You can clearly see how your work makes a difference and helps shape a better future for the planet.”
Emerging Leaders are mid-career CVC professionals who are making an outstanding contribution to their team and the industry.
