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Impact Investors in Philanthropy Convene for MIE’s Mission Investing Institute in Atlanta
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We’re excited to bring foundation professionals from across the country to Atlanta for our sold-out Mission Investing Institute next week. Tailored for those newer to the field, the Institute offers practical guidance on building a mission-aligned portfolio — from structuring deals and measuring impact and returns to navigating operational and legal considerations. The program began virtually April 29 and includes three immersive days in Atlanta featuring workshops, site visits, and discussions with national and regional impact investing leaders.
“This year’s Institute comes at a critical moment, when foundations and mission-driven investors need to think creatively about all the tools in their toolkits,” said Matt Onek, President & CEO of Mission Investors Exchange (MIE). “We must redouble our efforts to support our investees and partners who are being challenged everyday.”
This gathering also sets the stage for MIE’s 2026 National Conference, when we’ll return to Atlanta to celebrate and build on the region’s growing impact ecosystem.
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Bridge Loans: Short-Term Financing, Long-Term Impact
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In an ever-evolving financial and political landscape, foundations and philanthropists are increasingly seeking innovative ways to ensure their mission-driven work is both sustainable and impactful. When used appropriately, bridge loans — a tool for short-term financial flexibility — can offer a unique solution to help foundations fill funding gaps, seize timely opportunities, and provide nimble and adaptable support.
Join us May 20 from 10:30 a.m.-Noon PT/1:30-3 p.m. ET for an overview of bridge loans and an in-depth look at how foundations can use these loans to support critical infrastructure in their communities. We will explore real-world examples, dig into key considerations, debunk common myths, and explore how bridge loans can align with your broader philanthropic goals.
Speakers include:
- Caroline Bressan, CEO, Open Road Alliance
- Chris Crothers, Director of Impact Investing, Jessie Ball DuPont Fund
- Kathlyn Mead, Chief Impact Officer, BQuest Foundation
- James Wahls, SVP of Programs and Initiatives, MIE (Moderator)
- Katheryn Witt, Director of Program Content, MIE (Moderator)
MIE members, log in to register for this VLO. If you have questions or challenges accessing registration, please contact Lizzie Avila.
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Join Us for Upcoming Member Gatherings
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Our gatherings provide space for MIE members and invited guests to build community, share perspectives, and explore innovative practices in an informal, interactive setting.
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MIE members should log in to register for the events above. If you have questions or challenges with registration, topic suggestions, or if you are not an MIE member but would like to inquire about membership and attending, please contact Madeline Moerk.
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Stay connected with the MIE team as we travel to various meetings and conferences across the country. We’d love to see you in person, learn more about your work, and explore new collaborations. Mark your calendar, and reach out to Zineb Touzani to set up a meeting.
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CDFIs: Financial First Responders Supporting Community Resilience
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Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) are playing an increasingly vital role in strengthening local economies, particularly in rural, urban, and Native communities historically underserved by traditional banks. With a network of more than 1,400 institutions nationwide, CDFIs are addressing urgent challenges like housing affordability, inflation, and limited access to small business capital. In a recent members-only conversation hosted by MIE, leaders from across the CDFI landscape described these mission-driven organizations as financial first responders, uniquely positioned to address economic shocks, natural disasters, and persistent disinvestment.
Panelists also challenged misconceptions around risk, emphasizing that CDFIs often outperform traditional banks in safety and returns. Their deep community ties and flexible approach make them ideal partners for catalytic capital, and strong public-private partnerships further amplify their impact. For every $1 in public funding, CDFIs attract $8 in private investment, channeling significant resources into communities that need it most.
“CDFIs aren’t just responding to needs — they’re shaping the future by helping communities envision and achieve generational wealth and opportunity,” said Karla Miller, vice president, program for the Northwest Area Foundation. |
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Select Member & Field News
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High Risk, High Reward: Bold Investments Driving Change
April 15, Surdna Foundation
How Heifer International is Using Grants and Loans to Prove That African Agriculture is Investable
April 17, ImpactAlpha
Inside the Max and Marjorie Fisher Foundation’s Multi Generational Giving
April 18, Inside Philanthropy
Honeycomb Credit raises $750,000 from Upstart Co-Lab
April 16, ImpactAlpha
Wanted: Financing for Quality Housing for Youth Exiting Foster Care
April 22, ImpactAlpha
Arctaris Impact Investors Announces Successful Sale of Cold Storage Facility in Pennsylvania Opportunity Zone
April 23, Newswire
Impact Investing: Shaping A Sustainable Future For Older Adults
The SCAN Foundation
April 23, Forbes
Evaluating Our Impact Investments with Community
April 24, Northwest Area Foundation
Announcement: All In On Mission
April 24, McKnight Foundation
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MIE MEMBERS RECEIVE AN IMPACTALPHA SUBSCRIPTION DISCOUNT!
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| MIE members are eligible for an exclusive 50% discount on new, annual ImpactAlpha subscriptions — bringing the price down from $399 to just $199. Group intro rates are also available. Don’t miss this opportunity to save on full access to engaging impact investing news. |
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