Inclusive capital helps entire communities

"Legislation and political directives are tying business leaders' hands and limiting their choices in an increasingly diverse economy. National political rhetoric and autocratic use of federal and state agency authority preempt business leaders from doing anything with a hint of diversity, equity, or inclusion. This ultimately interferes with smart business decisions, restricts markets, and limits communities from achieving inclusive growth and shared prosperity."

"Most recently, we successfully closed out our Blended Catalyst impact investment fund, which deployed capital around the country in inclusive ways for 10 years. Through that capital, we invested in business models and innovative capital structures that modeled new ways of doing business and delivering results. Over 10 years, from 2015 to 2025, the Blended Catalyst Fund brought together financial and philanthropic partners to improve capital access and investment as a key driver for equitable and inclusive economic opportunity."

Political and legislative efforts are creating barriers that undermine business growth by limiting leaders' ability to pursue diversity, equity, and inclusion. These constraints interfere with smart business decisions, restrict markets, and impede communities from achieving inclusive growth and shared prosperity. Inclusive growth should be practical and profitable, and empowering communities generates widespread prosperity. Inclusion improves financial performance. Living Cities has over three decades of experience building inclusive economies and demonstrates the power of community organizing, governance, and economic nurturing to build wealth. The Blended Catalyst Fund deployed capital inclusively over ten years, mobilizing partners to expand capital access and drive equitable opportunity.

Read at Fast Company