Community Wealth Building
In depth research brief into the practice of making strategic investments in funds that help build wealth within communities that have been systematically excluded from economic success.
Research into the practice of making strategic investments designed to help build wealth within communities that have been systematically excluded from economic success.
The Case for Investing in Community Wealth Building
A community’s collective level of wealth can be determined by measuring the net value of the assets owned by the individuals and families that are part of that community. If we compare the wealth available within various communities across the United States we can see evidence of wealth gaps and inequitable access to wealth building opportunities that fall across gender and racial lines.
Where did these gaps come from, and why have they persisted for generations? What does it take to open real pathways to wealth building, including homeownership, business ownership, and quality jobs? For investors seeking to make a positive difference, where can targeted capital make the most impact?
Community Wealth Building is one of Veris’ key impact investment themes, and our firm’s report may be a valuable resource for anyone looking for examples that show what that approach can look like in practice.
Report Overview
- Where the wealth gap comes from, and the barriers still standing between underserved communities and homeownership, business ownership, and quality jobs
- The investment strategies Veris uses to help close those gaps, from CDFI lending and employee ownership models to place-based investing and shareholder advocacy
- How policy engagement and direct investment work together in the push for a more equitable econom
- A case study on how one Native-led CDFI is expanding homeownership and small-business lending in Native communities.
Read the Report
Download the full report to find more information on wealth gaps and Veris’ approach to community wealth building.
