21 May Foundation Reopens Applications for Impact Investing Loans
Carrie Brock, Owner of Carrie Brock Clinical Therapy Services, utilized her loan to help open her doors in 2024. Her services helped address mental health needs within the county.
The McPherson County Community Foundation has reopened applications for potential loans through its Impact Investing Program. Launched in 2022, the program was designed to align the Foundation’s commitment to the future of McPherson County with its investment portfolio.
Because the funding is structured as a loan, it is not limited to nonprofit organizations. Community members, entrepreneurs, and businesses are also eligible to apply. The primary requirement is that the loan be used to address a community need.
The Foundation anticipates funding up to three projects, with loan amounts up to $10,000 each. These Impact Investing loans will be offered at interest rates competitive with traditional lenders.
In past years the Foundation utilized Impact Investing funds to help launch new programs and businesses in the county. MCCF has previously provided loans to help acquire and open an Oxford House in McPherson and to support the startup of Carrie Brock Clinical Therapy Services.
Applications for Impact Investing loans are available upon request. Those interested can contact McPherson County Community Foundation CEO Michelle Huddle at Michelle@McPhersonFoundation.org or 620-245-9070 for more information.
What is Impact Investing?
Impact Investing focuses on supporting local development opportunities throughout McPherson County. The Foundation has set aside funds that are distributed as loans rather than grants. These loans are repaid with interest over time, allowing the program to continue growing and supporting future projects by operating as a revolving resource. As loans are repaid, those funds will be reinvested into new organizations, businesses, and community initiatives.
The goal is to create investments that generate both financial and social returns. Every dollar invested through the program is intended to create meaningful impact within McPherson County communities. The Foundation anticipates a financial return of 3-5% to the McPherson County Impact Investment Change Makers Fund.
How will the Foundation make decisions on investments?
Because these loans are considered long-term investments, MCCF uses an extensive review process for applicants. The Foundation’s Impact Investment Committee reviews and scores applications based on county impact, level of risk, and alignment with the Foundation’s vision and priorities.
Why is this a focus of the Foundation now?
MCCF has an ongoing commitment to improve the quality of life in McPherson County and is continually exploring new ways to make a meaningful impact.
Impact investing has gained momentum among community foundations across the country and has been a recurring topic at recent Kansas Association of Community Foundations conferences.
Foundation staff have completed extensive training on impact investing and, through ongoing work in the community, have identified several opportunities where this type of funding could make a difference.
Traditional lending markets can sometimes make it difficult for nonprofit organizations to access affordable financing. While MCCF may not lend as frequently as private financial institutions, the Foundation aims to provide rates and terms that local organizations can realistically sustain.