WNY Impact Investment Fund

The WNY Impact Investment Fund (WNYIIF) operates as a place-based social impact fund, deploying capital into businesses and initiatives across the eight counties of Western New York. It strategically invests in enterprises that demonstrate potential for both market-rate financial returns and measurable social impact. The fund’s approach involves providing essential funding to socially responsible organizations, with a focus on fostering job creation, neighborhood revitalization, improved health outcomes, and environmental conservation within the region.

The fund was established in 2017 when the Community Foundation brought together 11 initial investors to form a for-profit entity. This collaborative effort was driven by the insight that a dedicated investment vehicle could uniquely accelerate economic resurgence in Western New York, by targeting investments that yield dual returns – both financial and social. Thomas P. Quinn serves as the Chief Executive Officer, leading the fund’s executive management and strategic direction.

WNYIIF’s beneficiaries are socially responsible organizations and emerging businesses operating within its geographic mandate, particularly those contributing to the region's overall prosperity and community well-being. The company’s long-term vision is to exemplify a successful model for place-based impact investing, continually driving the resurgence of Western New York through sustained growth, strategic resource development, and robust support for the local entrepreneurial ecosystem.