Jonathan Barkat for the Chronicle
A decade-long push has urged foundations to devote a bigger slice of their endowments to impact investing. But most big grant makers still aren’t biting.
In fact, a Chronicle survey found that of America’s 15 biggest endowed foundations, whose collective assets amount to $150 billion, just two tenths of 1 percent of their endowments are invested in line with their mission.
In our January cover story, we look at what’s impeding progress in impact investing — and the people who are pushing hard for greater change in foundation endowment priorities.
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NewsImpact Investing Struggles to Gain Traction Despite the Hype
There’s been lots of talk, but the vast majority of foundations are sticking with a century-old, bifurcated model of philanthropy: Money is given away on one side of the house, invested on the other, and never the twain shall meet. -
Foundation Giving
Climate Change Spurs McKnight to Go Big on Impact Investing
The foundation has put $1 out of ever $3 in its endowment into companies and other efforts that advance its grant-making mission. -
News
Doctor Takes Scientific Approach to Impact Investing
Ruth Shaber, a gynecologist, makes sure her fund’s grants and investments all focused on promoting women’s health. -
Foundation Giving
Hewlett Foundation’s Leader Makes a Case Against Impact Investing
The strategy can do more harm than good, especially for big grant makers, says CEO Larry Kramer.
