The confluence of anti-racist social progress and a global pandemic will forever change our nation’s vision of equitable economic development. Despite billions invested in local businesses each year, communities most impacted remain structurally neglected. Over the next ten years, an unprecedented wave of social, political, and monetary capital will flow to attempt to repair economic inequities. Join us to learn how California investors can take leadership by investing to support communities of color.
This is the third webinar in the Impact Investing Series. You may view materials from the previous two webinars here and here. More details on this session coming soon.
Speakers
Launched in 2016, Mission Driven Finance is a Certified B Corporation and an impact investment firm dedicated to building a financial system that ensures good businesses have access to sufficient, affordable capital. As Chief Community Officer, Lauren leads the design of community-driven strategy, providing a frame for both internal culture & partner relationships. Prior to building Mission Driven Finance, she spent nearly 10 years fundraising for a wide variety of nonprofits—from large universities to small, volunteer-run initiatives. Lauren proudly serves on the steering committee of the Inclusive Capital Collective and as a board member of Business for Good San Diego.
Omar Passons, Director, Office of Integrative Services, County of San Diego (Moderator)
Omar Passons is a local leader, and a lifetime San Diegan, who works every day to improve neighborhoods, to create opportunities for youth, and to make our business community more successful, more progressive, and more uniquely San Diego. Omar has a Master’s Degree in Public Health and has spent the last decade working to stimulate and foster local businesses. He serves as a board member of the San Diego Workforce Partnership, CDC Small Business Finance, and the Earl B. Gilliam Bar Foundation and a member of the La Jolla/Pacific Beach Indivisible chapter.
Robert Villarreal, Executive Vice President, CDC Small Business Finance; President, Bankers Small Business CDC of California
Robert Villarreal is a staunch advocate of getting capital into the hands of all entrepreneurs, particularly those who’ve historically struggled to get affordable loans. Villarreal, who has 20-plus years of economic development and non-profit experience. At CDC Small Business Finance, he oversees efforts to spur economic growth for underserved communities through financing and personalized business coaching.
Target Audience
This event is for members of SDG, NCG, and SCG. This event is also open to family offices, private investors, foundations, institutional investors who are interested in learning about investments into enterprises and funds that generate financial returns alongside positive social and environmental impact.
