Urban Impact Investing: Keeping Results Local

Abstract

Local impact investing could drive results by utilizing expertise and resources of multiple stakeholders. Defined as the creation and use of investment vehicles to generate specific social or environmental benefits while reaping financial returns, this practice has been applied in a real estate, environmental and small business context. Impact investing principles will be analyzed as a response to the capital vacuum for small business owners in urban environments by observing models among players in various cities. Iterations of this study will propose a pilot model for the creation of an impact investing platform in Jersey City by will outlining specific best practices, identifying available resources and developing a portfolio of high-potential, under-resourced small businesses.