Forward Fund

The Forward Fund operates an innovative model for career financing, providing zero-interest, recyclable loans to individuals seeking education and training for high-demand jobs. This mechanism enables learners to cover tuition, living expenses, and other costs, lowering financial barriers to skill acquisition. The organization partners with community colleges and employers to identify and support programs that lead to family-sustaining wages, thereby fostering workforce development in critical sectors.

The organization was founded by Meaghan Dennison, who serves as its CEO. Dennison's experience, including her prior role as CEO of the Cape Fear Collective, provided the insight into the need for effective, sustainable funding solutions for workforce development. This led to the establishment of The Forward Fund as the first "Pay It Forward Fund" in North Carolina, driven by a commitment to expand economic mobility through learner-centric financial support.

The Forward Fund serves a multi-faceted community, including learners who gain access to education, funders who contribute capital for deployment, and employers seeking skilled talent. Education and training providers also benefit by having their high-performing programs financed. The organization's long-term vision is to empower individuals to achieve upward economic mobility, strengthen the workforce in Southeastern North Carolina, and expand its model to support more learners and programs across the state.