Mission-Related Investments - The Abell Foundation

We believe that innovative ideas for positive change come from a wide array of different organizations and strategies. Aligned with the Foundation’s mission and strategic goals, we provide a limited number of mission-related investments (MRIs) to companies and impact funds.

Photo courtesy of Chime Solutions, an Arctaris portfolio company.

Our MRI Strategy

MRIs are typically loans, guarantees, equity and limited partnership investments to for-profit entities that advance important mission priorities. MRIs are typically provided at below-market investment returns to leverage additional sources of catalytic capital.

We are open to evaluating and co-creating innovative financing solutions that address important social challenges. Our MRI investments to date have ranged from $1 million to $4 million. We prefer to invest alongside experienced financial professionals and to support strategies that thoughtfully mitigate risks of capital losses. In addition to providing financial resources, the Foundation is committed to being a value-added partner to support the positive impact and success of our investments. We help our portfolio investments through our experience, knowledge base, and substantial network of local and national connections.

Eligibility and Review Criteria

For all companies and impact funds seeking mission-related investments.

MRI Application Process

For all MRI requests. Reviewed at one of the Foundation’s five annual Board meetings.

Featured Work

Case Study: Astor Court Apartments

Two decades ago, the Abell Foundation saw a need to help attract new teachers to Baltimore and support them in their first years of the profession. Abell combined its commitments to education, community development, and mission-related investments in a unique effort to provide teachers with affordable housing and a supportive community of fellow educators. In 2005, Astor Court Apartments became one of the first purpose-built housing projects for teachers in the country.

Case Study: Arctaris

Arctaris Impact Investors, LLC is an impact investment firm focused on growth-oriented operating businesses and community infrastructure projects located in underserved communities. Founded in 2009, Arctaris has partnered with foundation, federal, and state government agencies to invest in Opportunity Zones, inner cities and targeted rural communities throughout the U.S., with the aim of delivering above-market investment returns alongside positive social impact.