Opportunities and Challenges of Rural Investing

Monday, May 10, 3:30 - 5:00 pm

Rural investing presents unique opportunities and challenges. PRI makers cannot necessarily apply the same principles that are effective in urban areas to rural settings. What investment vehicles exist? Where are the gaps, and how can foundations help build capacity to fill those gaps? What are the unique challenges for raising and deploying capital?

Participants will hear preliminary findings and contribute their insights to a study of rural investing by the More for Mission Campaign, funded by the Annie E. Casey Foundation. This session will draw on the new study and what we as PRI makers and intermediaries know from our own experience to create an accurate and nuanced understanding of the field’s strengths, accomplishments, challenges and possibilities. Join new and experienced rural PRI makers to share experiences, identify resources and explore ways to increase the effectiveness and impact of rural investing.

Moderator: Sandra Mikush, Mary Reynolds Babcock Foundation

Speakers/Facilitators: Cory Anderson, Winthrop Rockefeller Foundation Joe Black, Southern Bancorp Lisa Kleissner, KL Felicitas Foundation Christine Looney, Ford Foundation Justin Maxson, Mountain Association for Community Economic Development Chris Perez, Rasmuson Foundation Ron Phillips, Coastal Enterprises, Inc. Miriam Shark, The Annie E. Casey Foundation

Handout for this session: