Impact first investing is an approach that aims to generate both a financial return and a measurable social benefit.

Seattle Foundation has engaged in impact investing since 2008, with notable efforts including the Evergreen Impact Housing Fund, which supports the development of affordable housing across the region.

We are currently refining our impact investing strategy to align with our Blueprint for Impact and Strategic Plan. This work will help ensure that our investments contribute to a stronger, more equitable community.

For more information or to get started with impact investing, call Ken Takahashi 206.515.2115.

Impact-First Investing Vision

We believe impact capital can be a catalyst for community-led economic transformation. Our vision is to invest in strategies that build generational wealth, preserve community ownership, and drive equitable economic growth. By supporting models that prioritize key community needs like affordable housing, small business development, and land acquisition that amplifies community led development priorities, we aim to generate long-term financial returns alongside measurable social impact. Through targeted investments in community-controlled assets and planning processes, we help close the racial wealth gap, prevent displacement, and foster resilient local economies that thrive for generations.

We make financial investments with an impact-first approach, which emphasizes deep social impact while achieving a financial return. Our investments in key community needs like affordable housing, small business development, and child care development build generational wealth, preserve community ownership, and drive equitable economic growth. We work closely with private and public partners who contribute complementary sources of funding and technical assistance. This strong collaborative approach allows our funding to serve as a catalyst in filling critical funding gaps and maximizing our social impact.