What is Investment Connection Online?

The Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City developed a unique forum for nonprofits to present to potential funders. The goal is to match financial institutions, government, corporate enterprises and community foundations with organizations that have community and economic development proposals that need an investment, grant or loan. In 2011, Investment Connection started as a "live" event with non-profit organizations showcasing their community development proposals to funders and has connected non-profits with approximately $74 million in funding.

Why did the Fed create it?

The Federal Reserve works to bring together partners to share ideas and find innovative approaches to issues. It was identified as a need in the community to help match funders with organizations that had community and economic development proposals.

With that in mind, Investment Connection was created with the goal to match financial institutions, government, corporate enterprises and community foundations with organizations that have community and economic development proposals that need an investment, grant or loan. The result of this program has been approximately $74 million in funding for community and economic development organizations. Now, in order to make more connections, Investment Connection has added an online option.

How does it work?

Submit a External LinkCRA eligible proposal to External LinkInvestment Connection Online. Along with completing the template you will need to provide your most recent reviewed or audited financials. Once reviewed and approved, your proposal will be posted for viewing by the funding community. Funders visit our site specifying their geographic and service topics of interest, such as asset building/financial education, community facilities, small business development/microlending, neighborhood stabilization/affordable housing, or workforce development. 

When do I submit a proposal?

You can submit your organization’s proposals to  Investment Connection Online and reach potential funders at anytime. In order for your organization’s proposal to appear on Investment Connection Online, you must supply your organization’s information by completing an online form for consideration. Go to External LinkInvestment Connection Online to begin the process.

What kind of proposals are you looking for?

Typical issues addressed in proposals include:

  • Asset Building/Financial Education
  • Community Facilities
  • Small Business Development/Microlending
  • Neighborhood Stabilization/Affordable Housing
  • Workforce Development

Though funding is a crucial component, the connection also provides opportunities to inform funders about critical needs facing low- and moderate-income populations and to begin building relationships with members of the nonprofit community.

Who are the funders?

The funders are representatives from financial institutions, government (state, federal, local), corporate enterprises and community foundations.  The Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City does not endorse or make any representations as to the propriety or suitability of the following organizations, investments or programs listed.  Organizations should perform their own due diligence before engaging in any transactions with these entities to ensure that any such transactions meet the organization's objectives.

Investment Connection - Maximize Your IC Proposals

Need more information? Contact Ariel Cisneros at 303-572-2601.