October 2023: Registration Now Open: MIE 2024 National Conference

The Mission Investors Exchange (MIE) 2024 National Conference will take center stage in the world of impact investing from May 7-9 at the JW Marriott Los Angeles L.A. LIVE, with conference registration now open to our members and non-member foundations. We invite you to join us as we hear from leading voices, learn from the local community, and explore the latest deals and trends shaping the future of the field.

MIE has reserved a block of rooms at the JW Marriott Los Angeles L.A. LIVE for the comfort of our National Conference participants. Make your hotel reservation today to maximize your time, network on breaks and after sessions, and catch offsite activities around the city. Reserve now to receive our reduced block rate.

Members of MIE who will be attending SOCAP are welcome to join an “After Dinner Drop-In with MIE and Toniic” on Monday, Oct. 23, 2023, from 8-9:30 p.m. This informal gathering is an opportunity to meet other MIE members and impact investors and recap the day’s events. Please contact Melanie Audette, MIE’s Senior Vice President, Member Experience & Partnerships, if you are interested in attending. She will provide details on the location as well as a calendar invitation. We hope to see you there! 

10:30 a.m.-Noon PDT / 1:30-3 p.m. EDT
Tuesday, Oct. 31

Mission Investors Exchange (MIE) is pleased to present “Deep Dive on Deals,” a program series that showcases impact investments at foundations. Through Virtual Learning Opportunities (VLOs) and separate foundation member-only gatherings, we are bringing first-hand experiences that showcase the nuts and bolts of impact investing.

For this session, MIE will present the Erie Community Foundation’s catalytic $5 million investment in Arctaris Impact Investors, which unleashed corporate dollars from Erie Insurance and other investments totaling over $52 million to a city now experiencing a vital resurgence.

10-11 a.m. PDT / 1-2 p.m. EDT
Wednesday, Nov. 1

Join your foundation peers as Erie investors and MIE lead a follow-up to the VLO above, Catalyzing Investments on Main Street — Erie Community Foundation and Arctaris Impact Investors. Our conversation will focus on foundation processes and internal dynamics.

10:30-11:45 a.m. PDT / 1:30-2:45 p.m. EDT
Wednesday, Dec. 13

Join us for an Open Mic on Investing in Climate Equity to discuss how impact investors can contribute towards climate adaptation to enhance resilience in vulnerable communities. This session will feature insights from the Visa Foundation and Blue Orchard/Schroders, shedding light on how climate equity intersects with economic, social, and gender equity. Discussions will revolve around the importance of climate adaptation investment, particularly the role of climate insurance in safeguarding communities from the adverse impacts of climate change, thereby aiding economic development and poverty reduction. Open Mics serve as a platform for MIE members to collaboratively explore impactful ideas and respond to urgent crises, fostering an environment of swift action, diverse perspectives, and shared resources.

MIE members should log in to register for the events above. If you are not a member of MIE and would like to attend, please inquire at [email protected]. If there are additional topics that you would like to cover, please email Zineb Touzani or Melanie Audette. 

Larta Institute Rooted Horizons: Growing Food By and For Angelenos
Larta Institute recently released an eye-opening report on the urban agriculture landscape, shedding light on the implications for sustainable urban development and food security. This meticulously researched report, influenced by insights from experts in urban agriculture and sustainability, unveils a compelling vision of how strategic investments in urban farming can rejuvenate communities, enhance local food production, and mitigate environmental challenges. One of the report's standout revelations is the potential for urban agriculture to create jobs and foster community resilience, particularly in urban areas facing economic challenges. Larta's report underscores the critical role of urban agriculture in shaping a more sustainable and equitable future for our cities.
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Why impact investing needs to prioritize public interest technology
Sept. 21, Ford Foundation
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Community foundations embrace mission-related investing to boost local impact
Sept. 26, ImpactAlpha

Facilitating Equitable Systems Change: A Guide to Help Foundation Board Members and Executive Leadership Lead the Way
Oct. 4, Rockefeller Philanthropy Advisors

LeapFrog’s emerging consumer fund secures $100 million commitment from IFC
Oct. 10, ImpactAlpha

Greater Milwaukee Foundation CEO will retire in 2024
Oct. 11, Milwaukee Business Journal

MIE is looking for motivated candidates for the following roles: 

• Director/Senior Director, Program Content

Mission Investing Institute
Our Mission Investing Institute's virtual sessions, held Sept. 14-19 convened more than 70 participants for the kick-off of our signature introductory learning program. The virtual component comprised two structured sessions on Impact Investing fundamentals and two open office hours, enabling attendees to receive personalized guidance. The first session, "What is Impact Investing?", featured Antony Bugg-Levine, President of Lafayette Square Foundation; Bulbul Gupta, President and CEO of Pacific Community Ventures; and Mark Doherty, Senior Director of Investments at the San Francisco Foundation; facilitated by James Wahls, MIE’s Senior Vice President for Programs and Initiatives. These industry experts discussed the core principles of impact investing, its purpose, and its potential for achieving equitable outcomes. The second session, "Key Terms and Fundamentals of Impact Investment," also under the guidance of James Wahls, delved into industry-specific terminology and practical insights shared by Andrea Barrios, Senior Impact Investment Manager at Vancity, and Tracy Kartye, Director of Social Investments at the Annie E. Casey Foundation.

The Institute continues with in-person sessions Nov. 6-7 at The California Endowment in Los Angeles and will cover essential aspects including designing and operationalizing an impact investing program, investment strategy, and impact activation. Special thanks to our speakers and participants for their valuable contributions.