Synergy Contracting is a fully bonded, unionized, women-owned construction company specializing in Environmental Remediation, Demolition, and Cleaning Construction Services based in Lawrence, MA. Jeysi Zuniga, the founder and CEO, is an immigrant from Guatemala and is determined to provide opportunities and entry points for women in the construction industry. In 2022, BII provided a line of credit to smooth cash flows as the company grows. Learn more
ChopValue Boston manufactures and sells a variety of commercial and residential wood products made out of previously discarded chopsticks. ChopValue’s business model exemplifies the concept of the circular economy: chopstick waste is recycled, converted to a useful good at a microfactory, then purchased by local customers. CEO, Elaine Chow, focuses on hiring young adults facing barriers to employment, including returning citizens. In 2022, BII made an equity investment to start the microfactory that will have a structured exit. Learn more
In conversation with Sabrina Nunez-Diaz, BII Impact Investing Associate
What were the pivotal moments that led you to where you are today?
The pivotal moment was being part of an incredible youth-led community organization. When I was 11, family members in Roxbury created an organization called “Free My People”. They trained us to fight for international and Black liberation as a life mission, way before it was a job. They taught us how to organize. Our first organized campaign was against the Boston Police Department and their stop and frisk policy around the time of the Charles Stuart case. As young people, we were trained to be socialist community organizers with the skills to run a community-based organization.
You were previously the Executive Director at City Life / Vida Urbana, what was your biggest lesson from that work about community development and control in RE?
As ED of City Life / Vida Urbana, I learned more deeply the importance of the long, slow, steady, consistent work of building a base. Organizing isn’t just about mobilization, it’s being in contact with people day in and out, knowing their stories, and being committed to their ongoing leadership development and political education. When an organization commits to that fully, that’s where the power is! I continue to carry those lessons with me.
How do your interests and personal mission intersect with your role on the BII Board?
I love that BII is working to build our community’s political power and is committed to transformative change through innovation & experimentation. I’m most interested in community wealth building and am excited about BII’s new fund and its willingness to explore ways to finance these types of projects.
What is your vision for the future?
My vision is to help strengthen broad movement infrastructure so that social movement groups can do more than just survive. The goal is for our groups locally to play an active role in, and ultimately win, broad transformative systems change in the state and nationally.
https://bostonimpact.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/LisaOwensPressPic.jpeg946946Monica Hinojos-Capeshttps://bostonimpact.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/BII_logo_rec_webheader-300x74.pngMonica Hinojos-Capes2022-07-29 14:09:102022-07-29 14:12:17An Interview with BII Board Member, Lisa Owens, Executive Director of Hyams Foundation
“Partnering with everyone from HBS to City Hall, Francisco continues to put her stamp on Boston while working to fulfill BII’s mission to close the city’s racial wealth gap.” Read more.
https://bostonimpact.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/BF-100-Influencers-Boston-Mag.jpeg356356Monica Hinojos-Capeshttps://bostonimpact.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/BII_logo_rec_webheader-300x74.pngMonica Hinojos-Capes2022-04-26 17:30:252022-04-26 17:32:12Our CEO, Betty Francisco was named among Boston Magazine’s 100 Most Influential Bostonians!
A new report from California-based impact investor Pacific Community Ventures includes a case study on BII as one of the most promising practices and resources that can help companies and investors integrate negative impact management into their impact measurement and management (IMM) approach. Read more.
https://bostonimpact.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/Managine-Neg-Impact.png14501450Monica Hinojos-Capeshttps://bostonimpact.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/BII_logo_rec_webheader-300x74.pngMonica Hinojos-Capes2022-04-26 17:29:192022-04-26 17:31:53California-based impact investor Pacific Community Ventures includes a case study on BII as one of the most promising practices and resources
Watch the recording to hear about strategies to shift risk to those who can bear it and build wealth-building in low-income communities. Watch here.
https://bostonimpact.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/DF-NPQ-panel.png624624Monica Hinojos-Capeshttps://bostonimpact.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/BII_logo_rec_webheader-300x74.pngMonica Hinojos-Capes2022-04-26 17:27:262022-04-26 17:31:58Our founder and Board Chair Deborah Frieze spoke on an NPQ panel titled, What's investment risk and who bears it?
At BII, are proud to honor and celebrate the Black Business Owners in our portfolio for Black History Month! The present and former BII portfolio company leaders reflect the depth of talent across sectors that is present among Black businesses in Eastern Massachusetts. They range from food businesses to education technology startups, and construction companies to community centered nonprofits, among many others!
LEARN MORE ABOUT BII’S BLACK BUSINESSES
Joanna Smith-Griffin is the founder and CEO of AllHere, an AI-powered technology solution for K-12 schools to increase student participation in school, reduce the dropout rate, and build engagement.
Donald Donaldson is the founder and president of Beantown Builders, a general contracting firm that specializes in residential remodeling projects in the Greater Boston area
Helen Adeosun is co-founder and CEO of CareAcademy, an online education platform that provides caregivers with high-quality training to improve their skills and deliver the best care to older adults.
Donald Alexis is a community organizer and advocate for affordable housing in Mattapan. He founded CICD to work with municipalities and developers to provide affordable housing in communities of Caribbean descent.
Carlene O’Garro is owner of Delectable Desires Pastries, where she makes gourmet baked goods from scratch, specializing in special event cakes.
Kamaal Jarrett is the founder of Hillside Harvest, a condiment company making hot sauces and marinades inspired by Caribbean flavors.
Omo Moses is the founder of MathTalk PBC, a community-focused education technology company that aims to increase early math skills, especially among children of color.
Florence Furaha is co-founder and CEO of Meetcaregivers, a home healthcare business that connects families with pre-screened and qualified caregivers for their elders.
Michele Corton-Brown is board president and former CEO of Quality Interactions, an e-learning platform that provides cultural competency training for professionals in healthcare and other sectors.
Tartts Day Care Centers is a family-owned business that provides quality childcare services. Founded by African-American nurse Bessie Tartt Wilson in 1946, the company is now run by second, third, and fourth generation family members, Mary L. Reed (President), Wanda Geer (CEO), Ken Reed (COO), Nidia Wright Adjety (VP).
Malia Lazu is an award winning, tenured strategist in diversity & inclusion. She founded The Lazu Group to bring a new approach to DEI that helps people forge better connections, resulting in happier individuals and healthier companies.
Dr. Tariana V. Little is the co-founder and CEO of EmVision Productions. She developed the Social Impact Storytelling™ framework that helps businesses and organizations convey their value and values.
Cassandria Campbell is co-founder of Fresh Food Generation, a restaurant, food truck and catering business serving on-the-go real foods. The company sources ingredients from local farms and prepares meals inspired by Latin American and Caribbean cuisine.
JC Burton is the founder and CEO of Maven Construction, a general contracting firm that provides construction management services, while focusing on hiring diverse workers and subcontractors.
Teresa Maynard is a community activist and the founder of Sweet Teez Bakery, a nut-free bakery located in Commonwealth Kitchen in Dorchester.
Patricia Spence is the CEO of the Urban Farming Institute, located at the historic Fowler Clark Epstein Farm in Mattapan. It provides farmer training, creates green collar jobs and engages urban communities in building a healthy, local food system.
https://bostonimpact.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/BHM-Celebrating-Black-Businesses-scaled.jpg25601728deborahhttps://bostonimpact.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/BII_logo_rec_webheader-300x74.pngdeborah2022-02-25 15:17:532022-02-28 15:36:44Honoring BII's Black Business Owners
Hillside Harvest is a Caribbean-American natural condiment brand that sells at regional grocery stores, local farmers markets, direct-to-consumer on their website, and even at Fenway Park! Hillside Harvest has developed three hot sauce flavors and two Jamaican jerk marinades. Founder Kamall Jarrett’s vision was to create a brand that would bring the Caribbean flavors of his heritage out of the specialty international markets and into mainstream supermarket aisles. In 2022, BII partnered with other investors to make a loan to Hillside Harvest with a revenue-based repayment structure to fuel the company’s early growth. Learn more.
Hillside Harvest is a Caribbean-American natural condiment brand that sells at regional grocery stores, local farmers markets, direct-to-consumer on their website, and even at Fenway Park! Hillside Harvest has developed three hot sauce flavors and two Jamaican jerk marinades. Founder Kamall Jarrett’s vision was to create a brand that would bring the Caribbean flavors of his heritage out of the specialty international markets and into mainstream supermarket aisles. In 2022, BII partnered with other investors to make a loan to Hillside Harvest with a revenue-based repayment structure to fuel the company’s early growth. Learn more.
https://bostonimpact.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/hillside-harvest.jpg10001000deborahhttps://bostonimpact.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/BII_logo_rec_webheader-300x74.pngdeborah2022-01-31 13:59:582022-03-31 14:06:56Hillside Harvest Receives Revenue-Based Loan for Growth
All In Energy is a Boston-based nonprofit organization that seeks to accelerate an inclusive, clean energy economy for underserved communities in Massachusetts. They are also increasing energy sector job opportunities for diverse talent through their internship program with local universities and community colleges. In 2021, BII made a term loan to All In Energy to grow their team and in 2022, BII provided a line of credit to assist the organization with contract financing. Learn more
https://bostonimpact.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/All-In-Energy-1.jpg131131Monica Hinojos-Capeshttps://bostonimpact.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/BII_logo_rec_webheader-300x74.pngMonica Hinojos-Capes2021-12-27 15:41:242022-04-22 09:18:10All In Energy
99 Degrees Custom is an apparel manufacturer in Lawrence, MA. With fast turnaround times and a skilled staff, they aim to produce performance activewear and wearable technology faster than any factory in western hemisphere. The company is dedicated to creating quality jobs for its 350+ employees by paying living wages with a path to $35/hour, providing frequent training, and benefits like health insurance, life insurance and paid vacation. In 2021, BII provided a subordinated loan to 99 Degrees Custom for expansion of the factory. Learn more
Eastie Farm is a community-based nonprofit focused on climate justice, food access, and building-community resilience. They address these issues through creating green spaces throughout East Boston. With the help of neighborhood volunteers, they have transformed several vacant lots into community gardens. In 2021, BII provided a line of credit to Eastie Farm to finance grants and contracts from city and state agencies, as well as foundations. Learn more
The LAZU Group is a DEI services firm that offers strategies for product development, marketing, talent recruitment and retention, and community engagement. They use a motivational-based approach designed with the principles of community organizing, traditional DEI, and mental health, to help people create better personal and professional connections, ultimately resulting in happier individuals and healthier organizations. In 2021, BII provided a line of credit to The LAZU Group to smooth cash flows as the company grows. Learn more
https://bostonimpact.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/lazu.png131131Monica Hinojos-Capeshttps://bostonimpact.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/BII_logo_rec_webheader-300x74.pngMonica Hinojos-Capes2021-12-27 15:19:012021-12-27 15:39:51The LAZU Group
The LAZU Group is a DEI services firm that offers strategies for product development, marketing, talent recruitment and retention, and community engagement. They use a motivational-based approach designed with the principles of community organizing, traditional DEI, and mental health, to help people create better personal and professional connections, ultimately resulting in happier individuals and healthier organizations. In 2021, BII provided a line of credit to The LAZU Group to smooth cash flows as the company grows. Learn more
https://bostonimpact.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Malia-Lazu-e1648745964101.png901953deborahhttps://bostonimpact.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/BII_logo_rec_webheader-300x74.pngdeborah2021-12-21 12:56:032022-03-31 12:59:38BII Extends Line of Credit to The Lazu Group
99 Degrees Custom is an apparel manufacturer in Lawrence, MA. With fast turnaround times and a skilled staff, they aim to produce performance activewear and wearable technology faster than any factory in western hemisphere. The company is dedicated to creating quality jobs for its 350+ employees by paying living wages with a path to $35/hour, providing frequent training, and benefits like health insurance, life insurance and paid vacation. In 2021, BII provided a subordinated loan to 99 Degrees Custom for expansion of the factory. Learn more
https://bostonimpact.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/99-Degrees-photo-1-e1648745692895.jpg15591602deborahhttps://bostonimpact.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/BII_logo_rec_webheader-300x74.pngdeborah2021-10-01 12:52:332022-03-31 12:55:27BII Invests in Lawrence Manufacturer, 99 Degrees
Boston Impact Initiative’s Impact Director, Aliana Pineiro was interviewed alongside entrepreneur and owner of CASABE Fruit Store & Deli, Wendy Luzon for a segment about Hispanic Heritage Month on Chronicle 5 on Sept 16th.
Watch here
https://bostonimpact.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/IMG-8271-scaled-e1631901893367.jpg12671920deborahhttps://bostonimpact.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/BII_logo_rec_webheader-300x74.pngdeborah2021-09-16 20:00:032021-09-17 14:19:35BII and Portfolio Company CASABE Featured on Chronicle 5
Eastie Farm is a community-based nonprofit focused on climate justice, food access, and building-community resilience. They address these issues through creating green spaces throughout East Boston. With the help of neighborhood volunteers, they have transformed several vacant lots into community gardens. In 2021, BII provided a line of credit to Eastie Farm to finance grants and contracts from city and state agencies, as well as foundations. Learn more
https://bostonimpact.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/216940496_1898155693656351_7847566585486513982_n.jpeg679576deborahhttps://bostonimpact.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/BII_logo_rec_webheader-300x74.pngdeborah2021-08-20 12:48:382022-03-31 12:51:52Eastie Farm Receives Financing for Grants & Contracts
EmVision Productions creates video content that helps clients communicate their organization’s social impact. Cofounder Tariana V. Little holds a DrPH from Harvard, focusing on communications and innovation and this expertise informs their Social Impact Storytelling™ framework. Their clients include nonprofits, social enterprises, government agencies, and corporations. In 2021, BII provided a term loan to finance a production vehicle, equipment and team growth. Learn more
Caribbean Integration Community Development (CICD) is a non-profit housing and community development organization that creates and maintains affordable housing in areas of Boston with large numbers of people of Caribbean descent. The organization’s first affordable housing development is Cote Village in Mattapan, which will be permanently affordable and meet LEED Silver Sustainability Standards. In 2021, BII extended a line of credit to CICD to smooth cash flows and facilitate team growth. Learn more
https://bostonimpact.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/cicd-logo.png132131Monica Hinojos-Capeshttps://bostonimpact.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/BII_logo_rec_webheader-300x74.pngMonica Hinojos-Capes2021-08-11 16:28:462021-08-11 16:42:52Caribbean Integration Community Development (CICD)
Casabe Fruit Store & Delicatessen is a small grocery store in downtown Lawrence. It is owned and operated by two Latinx Lawrence residents with deep connections to the city as activists and community leaders. The store carries fresh produce and supports local food entrepreneurs by selling their products. In 2021, BII partnered with the Harvard Business School Impact Fund to provide a term loan for startup working capital to the newly opened store. Learn more
https://bostonimpact.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/Casabe-Logo.png131131Monica Hinojos-Capeshttps://bostonimpact.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/BII_logo_rec_webheader-300x74.pngMonica Hinojos-Capes2021-08-11 16:22:422021-08-11 16:34:20Casabe Fruit Store & Delicatessen
Beantown Builders is a Brockton-based, Black-owned general contracting firm that specializes in residential remodeling projects in the Greater Boston area. The company works with first-time homebuyers who take 203K loans to remodel the homes, which are often distressed properties, thus making homeownership and home improvement accessible to more families. In 2021, BII made a term loan to Beantown Builders to refinance debt and support company growth. Learn more
All In Energy is a Boston-based nonprofit organization that seeks to accelerate an inclusive, clean energy economy for underserved communities in Massachusetts. Cofounders Rouwenna Altemose and Gabe Shapiro are also focused on increasing energy sector job opportunities for diverse talent through their internship program with local universities and community colleges. In 2021, BII made a term loan to All In Energy to grow their team. Learn more
https://bostonimpact.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/Untitled-design.png12001200deborahhttps://bostonimpact.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/BII_logo_rec_webheader-300x74.pngdeborah2021-07-09 12:39:052022-03-31 12:48:31Clean Energy Nonprofit Receives Investment
EmVision Productions creates video content that helps clients communicate their organization’s social impact. Cofounder Tariana V. Little holds a DrPH from Harvard, focusing on communications and innovation and this expertise informs their Social Impact Storytelling™ framework. Their clients include nonprofits, social enterprises, government agencies, and corporations. In 2021, BII provided a term loan to finance a production vehicle, equipment and team growth. Learn more
https://bostonimpact.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/EmVision.jpg10001000deborahhttps://bostonimpact.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/BII_logo_rec_webheader-300x74.pngdeborah2021-07-01 12:35:272022-03-31 12:38:21EmVision Productions Receives BII Loan for Growth
Casabe Fruit Store & Delicatessen is a small grocery store in downtown Lawrence. It is owned and operated by two Latinx Lawrence residents with deep connections to the city as activists and community leaders. The store caries fresh produce and supports local food entrepreneurs by selling their products. In 2021, BII partnered with the Harvard Business School Impact Fund and LEAF to provide working capital to the newly opened store. Learn more
https://bostonimpact.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/IMG_8267-scaled.jpg25601920deborahhttps://bostonimpact.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/BII_logo_rec_webheader-300x74.pngdeborah2021-06-25 12:00:112021-07-09 16:23:36BII Partners with HBS Impact Fund and LEAF to Support Lawrence Grocery Store
SCI’s mission is to strengthen communities by connecting diverse individuals and organizations through civic engagement initiatives. SCI provides communities with skills and tools to engage citizens to make a difference, with a priority on promoting youth success and healthy communities. In 2021, they recognized Betty Francisco for leveraging her social capital in support of healthy, equitable communities. Watch here.
https://bostonimpact.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/SCI.jpg6281200deborahhttps://bostonimpact.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/BII_logo_rec_webheader-300x74.pngdeborah2021-06-15 13:49:002021-08-30 13:54:32CEO Betty Francisco Receives SCI Idealist Award
BII’s CEO, Betty Francisco was named on Latino Leaders Magazine’s national list of 100 Most
Influential Latinas 2021! She is in the company of other CEOs and business executives, politicians,
actors, writers and even Supreme Court Justice Sotomayor! Read more
https://bostonimpact.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/LLM.png433341deborahhttps://bostonimpact.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/BII_logo_rec_webheader-300x74.pngdeborah2021-06-01 13:57:302021-08-30 14:03:13CEO Betty Francisco Named one of 100 Most Influential Latinas
Beantown Builders is a Brockton-based general contracting firm that specializes in residential remodeling projects in the Greater Boston area. The company works with first-time homebuyers who take 203K loans to remodel the homes, which are often distressed properties. In 2021, BII made a loan to Beantown Builders to support company growth. Learn more
https://bostonimpact.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Beantown_3-1.jpg7681024deborahhttps://bostonimpact.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/BII_logo_rec_webheader-300x74.pngdeborah2021-06-01 12:00:122021-07-08 21:25:14Beantown Builders Receives Financing for Growth
Since 1995, as part of its mission to promote and celebrate the achievements of women, YW Boston has held the Academy of Women Achievers celebration. This is an event through which they recognize and honor some of Boston’s brightest, boldest, bravest and most influential women. BII’s CEO Betty Francisco was among the Honorees for the 26th Annual Celebration in 2021.
https://bostonimpact.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/Francisco_Betty-crop.jpeg12801280deborahhttps://bostonimpact.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/BII_logo_rec_webheader-300x74.pngdeborah2021-05-25 13:42:122021-08-30 13:47:57BII's CEO Inducted into YW's Academy of Women Achievers
Caribbean Integration Community Development (CICD) is a non-profit housing and community development organization that creates and maintains affordable housing in areas of Boston with large numbers of people of Caribbean descent. The organization’s first affordable housing development is Cote Village in Mattapan, which will be permanently affordable and meet LEED Silver Sustainability Standards. In 2021, BII extended a line of credit to CICD to smooth cash flows and facilitate its growth. Learn more
https://bostonimpact.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/CICD.jpg11252000deborahhttps://bostonimpact.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/BII_logo_rec_webheader-300x74.pngdeborah2021-05-05 12:00:272021-07-08 21:22:16CICD Receives Line of Credit to Support Affordable Housing Development
Caraballo Accounting provides accounting and HR services and training to Latinx small business owners in Eastern MA. Through cultural competence and Spanish-language instruction, they are addressing barriers for local entrepreneurs looking to launch, grow or expand their businesses. They have partnered with various Latinx organizations to address the need for advisory support and small-business coaching and serve the communities of Lowell, Lawrence, and Worcester. In 2021, BII made a loan for expanding the team and building out an online training platform. Learn more
Synergy Contracting
/in BII Fund Portfolio, Portfolio /by Monica Hinojos-CapesSynergy Contracting is a fully bonded, unionized, women-owned construction company specializing in Environmental Remediation, Demolition, and Cleaning Construction Services based in Lawrence, MA. Jeysi Zuniga, the founder and CEO, is an immigrant from Guatemala and is determined to provide opportunities and entry points for women in the construction industry. In 2022, BII provided a line of credit to smooth cash flows as the company grows. Learn more
ChopValue
/in BII Fund Portfolio, Portfolio /by Monica Hinojos-CapesChopValue Boston manufactures and sells a variety of commercial and residential wood products made out of previously discarded chopsticks. ChopValue’s business model exemplifies the concept of the circular economy: chopstick waste is recycled, converted to a useful good at a microfactory, then purchased by local customers. CEO, Elaine Chow, focuses on hiring young adults facing barriers to employment, including returning citizens. In 2022, BII made an equity investment to start the microfactory that will have a structured exit. Learn more
An Interview with BII Board Member, Lisa Owens, Executive Director of Hyams Foundation
/in Announcements, BII Fund Announcements /by Monica Hinojos-CapesIn conversation with Sabrina Nunez-Diaz, BII Impact Investing Associate
What were the pivotal moments that led you to where you are today?
The pivotal moment was being part of an incredible youth-led community organization. When I was 11, family members in Roxbury created an organization called “Free My People”. They trained us to fight for international and Black liberation as a life mission, way before it was a job. They taught us how to organize. Our first organized campaign was against the Boston Police Department and their stop and frisk policy around the time of the Charles Stuart case. As young people, we were trained to be socialist community organizers with the skills to run a community-based organization.
You were previously the Executive Director at City Life / Vida Urbana, what was your biggest lesson from that work about community development and control in RE?
As ED of City Life / Vida Urbana, I learned more deeply the importance of the long, slow, steady, consistent work of building a base. Organizing isn’t just about mobilization, it’s being in contact with people day in and out, knowing their stories, and being committed to their ongoing leadership development and political education. When an organization commits to that fully, that’s where the power is! I continue to carry those lessons with me.
How do your interests and personal mission intersect with your role on the BII Board?
I love that BII is working to build our community’s political power and is committed to transformative change through innovation & experimentation. I’m most interested in community wealth building and am excited about BII’s new fund and its willingness to explore ways to finance these types of projects.
What is your vision for the future?
My vision is to help strengthen broad movement infrastructure so that social movement groups can do more than just survive. The goal is for our groups locally to play an active role in, and ultimately win, broad transformative systems change in the state and nationally.
Our CEO, Betty Francisco was named among Boston Magazine’s 100 Most Influential Bostonians!
/in Announcements, BII Fund Announcements /by Monica Hinojos-Capes“Partnering with everyone from HBS to City Hall, Francisco continues to put her stamp on Boston while working to fulfill BII’s mission to close the city’s racial wealth gap.” Read more.
California-based impact investor Pacific Community Ventures includes a case study on BII as one of the most promising practices and resources
/in Announcements, BII Fund Announcements, Uncategorized /by Monica Hinojos-CapesA new report from California-based impact investor Pacific Community Ventures includes a case study on BII as one of the most promising practices and resources that can help companies and investors integrate negative impact management into their impact measurement and management (IMM) approach. Read more.
Our founder and Board Chair Deborah Frieze spoke on an NPQ panel titled, What’s investment risk and who bears it?
/in Announcements, BII Fund Announcements /by Monica Hinojos-CapesWatch the recording to hear about strategies to shift risk to those who can bear it and build wealth-building in low-income communities. Watch here.
Honoring BII’s Black Business Owners
/in BII Fund Announcements /by deborahAt BII, are proud to honor and celebrate the Black Business Owners in our portfolio for Black History Month! The present and former BII portfolio company leaders reflect the depth of talent across sectors that is present among Black businesses in Eastern Massachusetts. They range from food businesses to education technology startups, and construction companies to community centered nonprofits, among many others!
LEARN MORE ABOUT BII’S BLACK BUSINESSES
Joanna Smith-Griffin is the founder and CEO of AllHere, an AI-powered technology solution for K-12 schools to increase student participation in school, reduce the dropout rate, and build engagement.
Donald Donaldson is the founder and president of Beantown Builders, a general contracting firm that specializes in residential remodeling projects in the Greater Boston area
Helen Adeosun is co-founder and CEO of CareAcademy, an online education platform that provides caregivers with high-quality training to improve their skills and deliver the best care to older adults.
Donald Alexis is a community organizer and advocate for affordable housing in Mattapan. He founded CICD to work with municipalities and developers to provide affordable housing in communities of Caribbean descent.
Carlene O’Garro is owner of Delectable Desires Pastries, where she makes gourmet baked goods from scratch, specializing in special event cakes.
Kamaal Jarrett is the founder of Hillside Harvest, a condiment company making hot sauces and marinades inspired by Caribbean flavors.
Omo Moses is the founder of MathTalk PBC, a community-focused education technology company that aims to increase early math skills, especially among children of color.
Florence Furaha is co-founder and CEO of Meetcaregivers, a home healthcare business that connects families with pre-screened and qualified caregivers for their elders.
Michele Corton-Brown is board president and former CEO of Quality Interactions, an e-learning platform that provides cultural competency training for professionals in healthcare and other sectors.
Tartts Day Care Centers is a family-owned business that provides quality childcare services. Founded by African-American nurse Bessie Tartt Wilson in 1946, the company is now run by second, third, and fourth generation family members, Mary L. Reed (President), Wanda Geer (CEO), Ken Reed (COO), Nidia Wright Adjety (VP).
Malia Lazu is an award winning, tenured strategist in diversity & inclusion. She founded The Lazu Group to bring a new approach to DEI that helps people forge better connections, resulting in happier individuals and healthier companies.
Dr. Tariana V. Little is the co-founder and CEO of EmVision Productions. She developed the Social Impact Storytelling™ framework that helps businesses and organizations convey their value and values.
Cassandria Campbell is co-founder of Fresh Food Generation, a restaurant, food truck and catering business serving on-the-go real foods. The company sources ingredients from local farms and prepares meals inspired by Latin American and Caribbean cuisine.
JC Burton is the founder and CEO of Maven Construction, a general contracting firm that provides construction management services, while focusing on hiring diverse workers and subcontractors.
Teresa Maynard is a community activist and the founder of Sweet Teez Bakery, a nut-free bakery located in Commonwealth Kitchen in Dorchester.
Patricia Spence is the CEO of the Urban Farming Institute, located at the historic Fowler Clark Epstein Farm in Mattapan. It provides farmer training, creates green collar jobs and engages urban communities in building a healthy, local food system.
Hillside Harvest
/in BII Fund Portfolio, Portfolio /by Monica Hinojos-CapesHillside Harvest is a Caribbean-American natural condiment brand that sells at regional grocery stores, local farmers markets, direct-to-consumer on their website, and even at Fenway Park! Hillside Harvest has developed three hot sauce flavors and two Jamaican jerk marinades. Founder Kamall Jarrett’s vision was to create a brand that would bring the Caribbean flavors of his heritage out of the specialty international markets and into mainstream supermarket aisles. In 2022, BII partnered with other investors to make a loan to Hillside Harvest with a revenue-based repayment structure to fuel the company’s early growth. Learn more.
Hillside Harvest Receives Revenue-Based Loan for Growth
/in BII Fund Announcements /by deborahHillside Harvest is a Caribbean-American natural condiment brand that sells at regional grocery stores, local farmers markets, direct-to-consumer on their website, and even at Fenway Park! Hillside Harvest has developed three hot sauce flavors and two Jamaican jerk marinades. Founder Kamall Jarrett’s vision was to create a brand that would bring the Caribbean flavors of his heritage out of the specialty international markets and into mainstream supermarket aisles. In 2022, BII partnered with other investors to make a loan to Hillside Harvest with a revenue-based repayment structure to fuel the company’s early growth. Learn more.
All In Energy
/in BII Fund Portfolio, Portfolio /by Monica Hinojos-CapesAll In Energy is a Boston-based nonprofit organization that seeks to accelerate an inclusive, clean energy economy for underserved communities in Massachusetts. They are also increasing energy sector job opportunities for diverse talent through their internship program with local universities and community colleges. In 2021, BII made a term loan to All In Energy to grow their team and in 2022, BII provided a line of credit to assist the organization with contract financing. Learn more
99 Degrees Custom
/in BII Fund Portfolio, Portfolio /by Monica Hinojos-Capes99 Degrees Custom is an apparel manufacturer in Lawrence, MA. With fast turnaround times and a skilled staff, they aim to produce performance activewear and wearable technology faster than any factory in western hemisphere. The company is dedicated to creating quality jobs for its 350+ employees by paying living wages with a path to $35/hour, providing frequent training, and benefits like health insurance, life insurance and paid vacation. In 2021, BII provided a subordinated loan to 99 Degrees Custom for expansion of the factory. Learn more
Eastie Farm
/in BII Fund Portfolio, Portfolio /by Monica Hinojos-CapesEastie Farm is a community-based nonprofit focused on climate justice, food access, and building-community resilience. They address these issues through creating green spaces throughout East Boston. With the help of neighborhood volunteers, they have transformed several vacant lots into community gardens. In 2021, BII provided a line of credit to Eastie Farm to finance grants and contracts from city and state agencies, as well as foundations. Learn more
The LAZU Group
/in BII Fund Portfolio, Portfolio /by Monica Hinojos-CapesThe LAZU Group is a DEI services firm that offers strategies for product development, marketing, talent recruitment and retention, and community engagement. They use a motivational-based approach designed with the principles of community organizing, traditional DEI, and mental health, to help people create better personal and professional connections, ultimately resulting in happier individuals and healthier organizations. In 2021, BII provided a line of credit to The LAZU Group to smooth cash flows as the company grows. Learn more
BII Extends Line of Credit to The Lazu Group
/in BII Fund Announcements /by deborahThe LAZU Group is a DEI services firm that offers strategies for product development, marketing, talent recruitment and retention, and community engagement. They use a motivational-based approach designed with the principles of community organizing, traditional DEI, and mental health, to help people create better personal and professional connections, ultimately resulting in happier individuals and healthier organizations. In 2021, BII provided a line of credit to The LAZU Group to smooth cash flows as the company grows. Learn more
BII Invests in Lawrence Manufacturer, 99 Degrees
/in BII Fund Announcements /by deborah99 Degrees Custom is an apparel manufacturer in Lawrence, MA. With fast turnaround times and a skilled staff, they aim to produce performance activewear and wearable technology faster than any factory in western hemisphere. The company is dedicated to creating quality jobs for its 350+ employees by paying living wages with a path to $35/hour, providing frequent training, and benefits like health insurance, life insurance and paid vacation. In 2021, BII provided a subordinated loan to 99 Degrees Custom for expansion of the factory. Learn more
BII and Portfolio Company CASABE Featured on Chronicle 5
/in BII Fund Announcements /by deborahBoston Impact Initiative’s Impact Director, Aliana Pineiro was interviewed alongside entrepreneur and owner of CASABE Fruit Store & Deli, Wendy Luzon for a segment about Hispanic Heritage Month on Chronicle 5 on Sept 16th.
Watch here
Eastie Farm Receives Financing for Grants & Contracts
/in BII Fund Announcements /by deborahEastie Farm is a community-based nonprofit focused on climate justice, food access, and building-community resilience. They address these issues through creating green spaces throughout East Boston. With the help of neighborhood volunteers, they have transformed several vacant lots into community gardens. In 2021, BII provided a line of credit to Eastie Farm to finance grants and contracts from city and state agencies, as well as foundations. Learn more
EmVision Productions
/in BII Fund Portfolio, Portfolio /by Monica Hinojos-CapesEmVision Productions creates video content that helps clients communicate their organization’s social impact. Cofounder Tariana V. Little holds a DrPH from Harvard, focusing on communications and innovation and this expertise informs their Social Impact Storytelling™ framework. Their clients include nonprofits, social enterprises, government agencies, and corporations. In 2021, BII provided a term loan to finance a production vehicle, equipment and team growth. Learn more
Caribbean Integration Community Development (CICD)
/in BII Fund Portfolio, Portfolio /by Monica Hinojos-CapesCaribbean Integration Community Development (CICD) is a non-profit housing and community development organization that creates and maintains affordable housing in areas of Boston with large numbers of people of Caribbean descent. The organization’s first affordable housing development is Cote Village in Mattapan, which will be permanently affordable and meet LEED Silver Sustainability Standards. In 2021, BII extended a line of credit to CICD to smooth cash flows and facilitate team growth. Learn more
Casabe Fruit Store & Delicatessen
/in BII Fund Portfolio, Portfolio /by Monica Hinojos-CapesCasabe Fruit Store & Delicatessen is a small grocery store in downtown Lawrence. It is owned and operated by two Latinx Lawrence residents with deep connections to the city as activists and community leaders. The store carries fresh produce and supports local food entrepreneurs by selling their products. In 2021, BII partnered with the Harvard Business School Impact Fund to provide a term loan for startup working capital to the newly opened store. Learn more
Beantown Builders
/in BII Fund Portfolio, Portfolio /by Monica Hinojos-CapesBeantown Builders is a Brockton-based, Black-owned general contracting firm that specializes in residential remodeling projects in the Greater Boston area. The company works with first-time homebuyers who take 203K loans to remodel the homes, which are often distressed properties, thus making homeownership and home improvement accessible to more families. In 2021, BII made a term loan to Beantown Builders to refinance debt and support company growth. Learn more
Clean Energy Nonprofit Receives Investment
/in BII Fund Announcements /by deborahAll In Energy is a Boston-based nonprofit organization that seeks to accelerate an inclusive, clean energy economy for underserved communities in Massachusetts. Cofounders Rouwenna Altemose and Gabe Shapiro are also focused on increasing energy sector job opportunities for diverse talent through their internship program with local universities and community colleges. In 2021, BII made a term loan to All In Energy to grow their team. Learn more
EmVision Productions Receives BII Loan for Growth
/in BII Fund Announcements /by deborahEmVision Productions creates video content that helps clients communicate their organization’s social impact. Cofounder Tariana V. Little holds a DrPH from Harvard, focusing on communications and innovation and this expertise informs their Social Impact Storytelling™ framework. Their clients include nonprofits, social enterprises, government agencies, and corporations. In 2021, BII provided a term loan to finance a production vehicle, equipment and team growth. Learn more
BII Partners with HBS Impact Fund and LEAF to Support Lawrence Grocery Store
/in BII Fund Announcements /by deborahCasabe Fruit Store & Delicatessen is a small grocery store in downtown Lawrence. It is owned and operated by two Latinx Lawrence residents with deep connections to the city as activists and community leaders. The store caries fresh produce and supports local food entrepreneurs by selling their products. In 2021, BII partnered with the Harvard Business School Impact Fund and LEAF to provide working capital to the newly opened store. Learn more
CEO Betty Francisco Receives SCI Idealist Award
/in BII Fund Announcements /by deborahSCI’s mission is to strengthen communities by connecting diverse individuals and organizations through civic engagement initiatives. SCI provides communities with skills and tools to engage citizens to make a difference, with a priority on promoting youth success and healthy communities. In 2021, they recognized Betty Francisco for leveraging her social capital in support of healthy, equitable communities. Watch here.
CEO Betty Francisco Named one of 100 Most Influential Latinas
/in BII Fund Announcements /by deborahBII’s CEO, Betty Francisco was named on Latino Leaders Magazine’s national list of 100 Most
Influential Latinas 2021! She is in the company of other CEOs and business executives, politicians,
actors, writers and even Supreme Court Justice Sotomayor! Read more
Beantown Builders Receives Financing for Growth
/in BII Fund Announcements /by deborahBeantown Builders is a Brockton-based general contracting firm that specializes in residential remodeling projects in the Greater Boston area. The company works with first-time homebuyers who take 203K loans to remodel the homes, which are often distressed properties. In 2021, BII made a loan to Beantown Builders to support company growth. Learn more
BII’s CEO Inducted into YW’s Academy of Women Achievers
/in BII Fund Announcements /by deborahSince 1995, as part of its mission to promote and celebrate the achievements of women, YW Boston has held the Academy of Women Achievers celebration. This is an event through which they recognize and honor some of Boston’s brightest, boldest, bravest and most influential women. BII’s CEO Betty Francisco was among the Honorees for the 26th Annual Celebration in 2021.
CICD Receives Line of Credit to Support Affordable Housing Development
/in BII Fund Announcements /by deborahCaribbean Integration Community Development (CICD) is a non-profit housing and community development organization that creates and maintains affordable housing in areas of Boston with large numbers of people of Caribbean descent. The organization’s first affordable housing development is Cote Village in Mattapan, which will be permanently affordable and meet LEED Silver Sustainability Standards. In 2021, BII extended a line of credit to CICD to smooth cash flows and facilitate its growth. Learn more
Caraballo Accounting
/in BII Fund Portfolio, Portfolio /by deborahCaraballo Accounting provides accounting and HR services and training to Latinx small business owners in Eastern MA. Through cultural competence and Spanish-language instruction, they are addressing barriers for local entrepreneurs looking to launch, grow or expand their businesses. They have partnered with various Latinx organizations to address the need for advisory support and small-business coaching and serve the communities of Lowell, Lawrence, and Worcester. In 2021, BII made a loan for expanding the team and building out an online training platform. Learn more