[Kalamazoo Community Foundation](https://www.kalfound.org)

Rolling

Flexible; typically low-interest loans, equity investments, or intermediary capital. Amounts and terms are customized to project needs.

Supports transformative community projects in Kalamazoo County via impact investments in affordable housing, infrastructure, and nonprofit innovation.

Only projects in Kalamazoo County or directly benefiting its residents are eligible.

--- ## Description The Social Impact Investment Fund is an initiative by the Kalamazoo Community Foundation aimed at catalyzing transformative projects in Kalamazoo County. The Fund provides flexible, innovative financing—including low-interest loans, equity investments, and intermediary capital—to support affordable housing, community infrastructure, nonprofit expansion, education, and economic equity initiatives. Unlike traditional grants or investments, this program prioritizes measurable social returns and seeks to empower local leaders, mission-driven businesses, and nonprofits to implement bold, community-focused ideas. The Fund's strategy combines direct impact investments with traditional financial approaches to ensure both immediate and lasting positive change in the community. --- ## Due Dates - Rolling submissions; applications are accepted year-round. --- ## Funding Amount - Funding is highly flexible and tailored to each project. - Support may be provided as: - Low-interest loans (often with below-market rates and flexible terms) - Equity investments (including venture capital and real estate) - Intermediary investments through CDFIs and other mission-driven lenders - Cash collateral or guarantees to unlock traditional lending - Typical award size and duration depend on project scope and needs; no strict minimum or maximum is specified. --- ## Eligibility - Eligible applicants include: - Nonprofit organizations - Property developers (including emerging and historically excluded developers) - Mission-driven or community-focused businesses - Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs), credit unions, and other lending institutions - Applicants must have at least two years of operating history. - Projects must be located in Kalamazoo County or directly benefit its residents. - Priority is given to: - Organizations led by people of color or historically excluded groups - Projects advancing affordable housing, economic equity, education, and neighborhood revitalization - Initiatives with strong community impact, inclusive business practices, and collaborative partnerships --- ## Application Process - Initial step is a conversation: Interested applicants start by submitting an inquiry form to initiate a discussion with the investment team. - The process includes: 1. **Consultation:** Assessment of project scope, viability, and alignment with the Fund’s mission. 2. **Review:** Financial underwriting and impact alignment evaluation by the Foundation’s internal committees. 3. **Approval & Closing:** If approved, legal and contractual documents are prepared, and funding is disbursed. - The application process is adaptive and designed to fit the needs of diverse projects. - There is no fixed deadline; proposals are reviewed on a rolling basis. --- ## Additional Information - The Fund welcomes innovative proposals, including those that may not fit traditional financing models. - Investment priorities align with the Foundation’s WHEN framework: Wealth, Housing, Education, and Neighborhoods. - Projects must demonstrate potential for significant, measurable community impact and sustainability. - Both small and large investment requests are considered, and the Foundation is open to custom investment structures. --- ## External Links - [Social Impact Investment Fund Program Page](https://kzcf.org/funds-in-motion/social-impact-investment-fund/) - [Explore KZCF Financing Options](https://kzcf.org/financing/#financing-options) - [Impact Investment PDF Flyer](https://kzcf.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/KZCF_Social_Impact_Flyer_Final.pdf) - [Impact Investing Report (2024)](https://e.issuu.com/embed.html?d=2024_social_impact_investing_report&u=kalfound#main-reader-content) --- ## Contact Information | Name | Role/Notes | Email | Phone | Link/Contact Form | |---------------------|-----------------------------------------|----------------------|---------------|-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Todd Kuntz | Senior Investment Officer (inquiries) | — | — | [Book a Consultation](https://kzcf.org/financing/#impact-investment-contact) | | Kate Huntington | Development Advisor (for large gifts) | — | 269.585.7267 | [Contact Form](https://kzcf.org/funds-in-motion/social-impact-investment-fund/#sii-contact-form) | | General Inquiries | — | info@kzcf.org | 269.381.4416 | — |

The Social Impact Investment Fund

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