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Boston Impact Initiative (BII)

North America, Massachusetts, United States, Jamaica Plain

Description

The Boston Impact Initiative (BII) is a pioneering impact investment fund based in Jamaica Plain, Massachusetts, dedicated to fostering a regenerative, inclusive, and just economy across Eastern Massachusetts. Established in 2013, BII's core mission revolves around deploying integrated capital—a strategic blend of financial, human, and social capital—to empower local businesses. Their unique approach aims to address systemic inequities by supporting enterprises that are not only financially viable but also contribute significantly to community wealth building, job creation, and environmental sustainability.

BII primarily focuses its investments on businesses led by entrepreneurs of color and women, recognizing the historical undercapitalization and systemic barriers faced by these groups. They offer flexible financing solutions, including debt, equity, and grants, tailoring their support to the specific needs of each venture. Beyond capital, BII provides crucial capacity-building assistance, helping these businesses grow and scale their positive impact within their communities. This holistic support system underscores their commitment to long-term, equitable economic development.

Since its inception, the Boston Impact Initiative has made substantial strides in its mission. The fund typically provides first checks ranging from $25,000 to $250,000, demonstrating a commitment to supporting early-stage and growing local enterprises. To date, BII has invested over $10 million across more than 70 businesses, illustrating their significant and sustained contribution to the regional economy. Their portfolio reflects a diverse range of sectors, all united by a shared commitment to creating a more equitable and sustainable economic landscape in Eastern Massachusetts.

Investor Profile

Boston Impact Initiative (BII) has backed more than 58 startups, with 0 new investments in the last 12 months alone. The firm has led 31 rounds, about 53% of its total and boasts 2 exits across its portfolio.

Investment Focus Highlights

  • Concentrates on Debt Financing, Seed, Series Unknown rounds (top funding stages).
  • Majority of deals are located in United States, United Kingdom.
  • Strong thematic focus on Food and Beverage, Education, Health Care.
  • Typical check size: $25K – $250K.

Stage Focus

  • Debt Financing (50%)
  • Seed (29%)
  • Series Unknown (9%)
  • Pre Seed (3%)
  • Series A (2%)
  • Convertible Note (2%)
  • Grant (2%)
  • Private Equity (2%)
  • Series B (2%)

Country Focus

  • United States (98%)
  • United Kingdom (2%)

Industry Focus

  • Food And Beverage
  • Education
  • Health Care
  • Saas
  • Wellness
  • Media And Entertainment
  • Financial Services
  • Digital Media
  • Communities
  • Electrical Distribution
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FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Learn who this investor regularly partners with—both firms and angels—and explore their latest activity.

Who does Boston Impact Initiative (BII) frequently co-invest with?

Rethink Education
North America, New York, United States, White Plains
Co-Investments: 3
Open Opportunity Fund
North America, Georgia, United States, Atlanta
Co-Investments: 1
Potencia Ventures
North America, Oregon, United States, Portland
Co-Investments: 2
NextFab Ventures
North America, Pennsylvania, United States, Philadelphia
Co-Investments: 1
Tale Venture Partners
North America, California, United States, Inglewood
Co-Investments: 1
MC
North America, Massachusetts, United States, Springfield
Co-Investments: 1
AV
North America, New York, United States, New York
Co-Investments: 1
Gratitude Railroad
North America, Utah, United States, Park City
Co-Investments: 2
MassVentures
North America, Massachusetts, United States, Boston
Co-Investments: 1
Alumni Ventures
North America, New Hampshire, United States, Manchester
Co-Investments: 1

What are some of recent deals done by Boston Impact Initiative (BII)?

florrent

Amherst, Massachusetts, United States

florrent is a bio-based materials and energy storage company.

Electrical DistributionElectronicsEnergy Storage
Pre SeedSep 7, 2023
Amount Raised: $2,475,000
Boston While Black

Boston, Massachusetts, United States

Boston While Black is a membership network for Black professionals, entrepreneurs, and students who are seeking connection and community.

Social
SeedMay 24, 2023
And Still We Rise

Boston, Massachusetts, United States

And Still We Rise specializes in mental health treatment, therapy and healing services, and consulting services.

Health CareMedicalTherapeuticsWellness
Debt FinancingJan 1, 2023
Community Purchasing Alliance

Washington, District of Columbia, United States

Community Purchasing Alliance provides management consulting and community organizing experiences.

CommunitiesConsultingFacilities Support ServicesJanitorial Service
Series UnknownJan 1, 2023
Sign-Speak

Rochester, New York, United States

Sign-Speak develops automatic, real-time captioning and ASL to English interpreting services via an online platform and mobile application.

Artificial Intelligence (AI)Information TechnologyMachine LearningSaaS
Series UnknownJan 1, 2023
Solomon Consulting Group

Boston, Massachusetts, United States

Solomon Group is a data analysis and strategic communications consulting firm to support and issue advocacy initiatives.

Data Management
Private EquityJan 1, 2023
MathTalk

Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States

MathTalk inspires adults and kids, particularly those in economically-distressed communities, to enjoy math.

EducationHigher EducationSTEM Education
SeedOct 22, 2022
Amount Raised: $1,900,000
CareAcademy

Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States

CareAcademy offers an online training empowering senior care professionals to deliver the highest caliber of services.

EducationHealth CareHome Health CareSaaSTraining
Series BJun 8, 2022
Amount Raised: $20,000,000
Hillside Harvest

Boston, Massachusetts, United States

Hillside Harvest is a hot sauce company that creates sauces with distinctive tastes and recipes.

Debt FinancingJan 31, 2022
TrillFit

Brooklyn, New York, United States

TrillFit is a boutique fitness brand enhancing wellness through its inclusive approach to building a gym community.

FitnessWellness
SeedJan 1, 2022