In July 2017, the University of New Hampshire (UNH) Foundation invested $3.06 million investment into the Community Loan Fund. This was the UNH Foundation’s first impact investment, and its first investment directly into a New Hampshire organization or business. This total investment was one of the largest investments ever in the Community Loan Fund, and the UNH Foundation has since grown that commitment to $4.3 million. The Foundation’s Treasurer, Erik Gross, said the convergence of several factors made it happen. UNH has a proud history in the field of sustainability, which includes its Sustainability Institute, several related majors, renowned work on climate research, a student-led trash-to-treasure program, and a University-wide commitment to earn the Platinum-level STARS (Sustainability Tracking, Assessment & Rating System) rating achieved later in 2017. At the same time, students encouraged UNH to divest its investments from fossil fuel companies and one student suggested making an investment in the New Hampshire Community Loan Fund. The Foundation’s investment advisor analyzed the Community Loan Fund and approved it as an impact investment, not only for UNH, but for many of its clients. “It’s a natural fit,” says Erik. “New Hampshire is part and parcel of what UNH is,” he says. “The fact that (the investment) fits within our portfolio as a prudent investment is very important, but after that, it’s a great way to be able to help the people of New Hampshire.”
Case Study
St. Joseph’s accreditation was suspended in 2019 because of financial concerns. Now, the college’s space and land is being evaluated for potentially becoming an innovation center for the surrounding community. The creation of the CSJ Center for Excellence & Innovation as a community-focused Opportunity Zone project will “align, engage, and partner local government and institutions with private capital and philanthropy to address the challenges of job creation and building scalable businesses in Rutland.” Goals for the CSJ Center for Excellence and Innovation are to serve the community by “providing certificate programs, workforce training, co-working spaces, and start-up support.”