In our new briefing, Transform Finance outlines various stages that investors may find themselves in exploring the space: understanding the landscape of EO funds, identifying the investment approaches of different funds, and comparing and evaluating the potential impact of funds. We provide recommendations for these stages as well as overall considerations to maximize impact and build the field. At the core of our recommendations is an analysis of 53 funds that finance EO in the United States and Canada, made across investment approaches, target financial returns, size, geographic focus and impact.
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Imagine an economy that serves people, instead of people serving the economy. Where community and worker-owned businesses meet local needs. To get to the economy we need, we need to get under the skin of the economy we think we know. Join us for a deep dive into understanding the “economy” that you won’t find in economics class or by watching stock tickers. This is an opportunity for changemakers to join a learning community on collective root cause solutions.
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The Washington State Department of Commerce has launched the first of five planned small business loan and investment programs aimed at increasing access to capital for small businesses in Washington state, particularly those that have been historically underserved or underbanked.
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In this second part of the Commercial Affordability Summit recap, read about other current programs and models of commercial affordability and access to capital and support for small business and entrepreneurs: from those led by the City of Seattle such as Restored; to some of the most community rooted examples of commercial affordability projects.
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With the Commercial Affordability Summit convening, COO sought to share what we learned from the pilot project, which concluded in 2022, and provide a platform for learning about additional strategies, models and programs that are currently being designed and implemented in support of an equitable and thriving small businesses environment and greater economic justice.
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Through this program, New Growth Innovation Network (NGIN), and its partners will deliver meticulously crafted capacity building courses and tailored hands-on technical assistance to fortify partnerships. These offerings are rooted in the understanding that creating enduring partnerships between economic development organizations and community-based organizations are essential to achieving lasting, equitable, and inclusive economic development strategies and funding coalitions.
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Communities of Opportunity (COO) and Grow America (formerly National Development Council) hosted this 3 session Asset Management Training series for community-based organizations or individuals that own real estate, are developing a space to own, or considering ownership in the future.
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The Business Community Ownership (BCO) Fund is a new investment model that addresses the rising cost of commercial rent in Seattle, which often affects neighborhoods and businesses owned by people of color, immigrants, women, and LGBTQ+ people. These communities continue to have less access to capital due to systemic inequities, racism, and related barriers.
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