Health equity means that everyone has a fair and just opportunity to be healthy. The COVID-19 pandemic has both highlighted the pervasive health disparities in the US and shown us that creating fair and just opportunities extend beyond the sphere of healthcare itself. From affordable housing to early learning through quality childcare to equitable access to healthy food, foundations are increasingly using impact investing as a tool to build more equitable communities that support the health of individuals and families within them.
Health conversion and other health-focused foundations are leading the way in this work, building portfolios that bridge their philanthropic commitment to community health with the non-profits, for-profits, and Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) that provide critical health, housing, education, and financial services to historically underserved populations. This session will explore the history and ethos driving health foundations, and foundation leaders will share the lessons they’ve learned from pilot loan programs, leveraging their balance sheets through guarantees, and new ways of investing for better health.
