Social Impact Now

24/01/2024

Social Finance Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly is social finance & why is it gaining so much attention in the financial world?
Social finance is a term used to describe the practice of using financial tools and strategies to address social and environmental issues. It goes beyond traditional finance by prioritizing positive impact over profit.

Who are the main players in social finance & how are they making a difference?
There are a variety of players in the social finance space, including impact investors, social enterprises, and community development financial institutions (CDFIs). These individuals and organizations use their resources to fund projects and businesses that have a positive impact on society and the environment. By investing in these people, projects, and businesses, they're working to create a more sustainable and equitable world using their capital.

What are the pros and cons of social finance compared to traditional finance?
One of the main advantages of social finance is its focus on impact rather than just financial returns, this can lead to more sustainable and ethical investments. However, social finance is often more complex and requires longer-term commitment, which may not be suitable for all investors. It's important to carefully consider the risks and benefits before diving into social finance as an investor or investee.

Why should businesses consider social finance over traditional finance?
Social finance offers investors the opportunity to align their money with their values. When businesses embed social/environmental impact into their business model, they can attract socially conscious consumers & investors and also contribute to positive change in their communities.

Why should everyone care about social finance?
Social finance can create a more equitable and sustainable world for all. By supporting businesses and initiatives that prioritize social and environmental impact, we can address pressing issues such as poverty, climate change, and inequities. It's a way for everyone to use their resources for good and make a positive impact.

What are examples of successful social finance initiatives led by people of color?
Absolutely! Some notable examples include the Connect UP Integrated Capital Fund (MN),Impact VenturesTX), The Guild(GA), (PA/NY), Common Future(National) and many more.

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22/01/2024

Are you in a job that is finance-adjacent, like philanthropy, social/corporate responsibility, or social justice,? Or you just want to know more about finance but you're not a finance or econ major? I've got you covered!

Coming soon! My new blog on social finance and impact investing from an economic justice perspective called Do.Different.Better. I'm taking all my years in finance, philanthropy, entrepreneurship, and corporate to bring it to you straight.

The blog will start with some FAQs and 101s on terms before diving into the juicy stuff--the good, the bad and the ugly (and yeah, there some f-ugly stuff going on under the guise of social impact).
This is too important to scroll past! We spend more time and resources finding the perfect car, handbag or Jordans, but what about where our money is sleeping at night and how it might be used against your self-interests?😎

I'm going to break down all the jargon in easy-to-understand so you can confidently exercise your power on how money can be a powerful tool for the 'pursuit of happiness and justice for all'.

First blog drops Wednesday 🎤
Tell me what you wanna know!

Stay tuned for updates!

26/10/2022

Investors! Entrepreneurs! Small business owners! Registration is open for Black Business Month!

ConnectUP! Institute is partnering with MN Black Business Support Collective and Launch MN, to host the first Minnesota Black Business Month in November 2022! Leveraging the success of the ConnectUP! Summit in the Twin Cities, these mini-ConnectUP! Summit events will be hosted across the state of Minnesota in the Twin Cities (11/9), Rochester (11/16), and St. Cloud (11/23).

These events will focus on:
-Uplifting the narrative of thriving Black-owned businesses across the state.
-Connecting small businesses to local and statewide support ecosystem
-Strengthening connections between BIPOC and rural entrepreneurs and investors.
-Advancing equitable access to capital, resources, and networks.

Visit https://bit.ly/3fPOgR7 or the individual links in our bio for registration information on each event.

05/10/2022

ConnectUP! Institute's new deadline for BIPOC and rural Minnesota business owners is tonight!
If you're eligible and looking for capital, submit the form by tonight to be considered!

Eligibility:
-In business for two or more years
-BIPOC or rural business owner in Minnesota

Interest form- bit.ly/3RYMpHZ
Learn more about the Integrated Capital Fund at connectupfund.org.

27/09/2022

Attention BIPOC and rural business owners in Minnesota!!

ConnectUP! Institute has extended the interest form deadline to join their Integrated Capital Fund! If you’ve been in business for 2 or more years you may be eligible. Head over to bit.ly/3RYMpHZ or the link in our bio titled “ConnectUP! Institute- ICF Interest Form” to get started!

Learn more about the Integrated Capital Fund at connectupfund.org.

20/09/2022

Are you a BIPOC or rural business owner in Minnesota looking for capital? Have you been in business for 2 or more years? Then you’re eligible to join ConnectUP! Institute's Integrated Capital Fund!

This fund provides Black, Brown and Rural founders across Minnesota the right capital, at the right time, for the right price. Head over to https://bit.ly/3RYMpHZ or the link in our bio titled “ICF Interest Form” to express your interest by this Saturday, September 24!

Learn more about the Integrated Capital Fund at ​​connectupfund.org or the link in our bio titled “ConnectUP! Institute- Integrated Capital Fund”.

18/09/2022

Twin Cities entrepreneurs! There's still time to register and join ConnectUP! Institute today for Moving the Dirt! Learn some crucial tools to take your business to the next level and connect with other local entrepreneurs.

Hustle mode has a shelf-life! Moving the Dirt is a long-term mindset and we're ready to help get you and your business to the next level!

16/09/2022

Posted • 📢T-minus 48 hours until Moving the Dirt: Building a Strong Business Foundation, have you secured your spot?? There’s still time but spaces are limited so head over to bit.ly/3Q7VZqj or the link in our bio titled “Moving the Dirt”.

Come learn from ConnectUP! Institute’s very own about strategically moving your business from hustle mode to the next level!

24/08/2022

TWIN CITIES BLACK-OWNED BUSINESSES!

ConnectUP! has partnered with Black Innovation Alliance and Google to find a Back-owned business owner in the Twin Cities that was able to thrive amidst the global pandemic. You can enter to win a $10,000 grant and be featured as part of a Town Hall in September.

Applications for the Back in the Black Tour $10,000 prize close THIS Friday 8/26! Visit http://bit.ly/3PM5fQS to learn more and apply!