Oikocredit USA, an ecumenical micro-finance investment company allied with the Presbyterian Hunger Program’s “Investing in Hope” initiative, has been honored for the second year in a row for its positive social and environmental impact.
By its selection for the “ImpactAssets 50 2013” (IA 50 2013) open source database of private debt and equity impact investment fund managers, Oikocredit was recognized as a valuable resource for advisors and investors who are seeking to respond to the growing demand for investment opportunities that deliver both financial and social and/or environmental returns.
“Balancing social and financial objectives is a priority for Oikocredit, and it is our commitment to this standard to which we owe our success as an effective vehicle for combatting poverty,” said Sharlene Brown, National Director of Oikocredit USA. “We are proud to be recognized by Impact Assets as an esteemed fund manager striving for economic empowerment for the poor as well as excellence in our loyalty to our investors and partners.”
The IA 50 2013 list represents $10.8 billion of capital invested throughout the country in such areas as community development, microfinance and clean technology.
Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) institutions, congregations and individuals have been actively engaged with Oikocredit in a variety of ways. Thirty-seven years after its initial investment as a founding partner, the Presbyterian Foundation is the largest denominational investor of Oikocredit in the USA with a current investment of $2.4 million.
“We congratulate Oikocredit, USA on this recognition and are proud of our long partnership. They have a strong track-record in both financial and social performance over the years, and they continue to be the gold standard for socially responsible investing,” said Bryce Wiebe, mission associate in the Presbyterian Hunger Program.
“We are absolutely thrilled with their work and look forward to encouraging Presbyterian congregations and individuals to consider adding Oikocredit to their investment and mission portfolios,” he added.