What is the Generation Foundation Project?
The Generation Foundation is all about unlocking the power of capital markets to create a more sustainable economic system. Through strategic research, grant-making, and advocacy, this project aims to drive meaningful change. It shares a bold vision with Generation Investment Management and Just Climate: a sustainable world where prosperity is shared broadly, society achieves wellbeing for all, nature is protected, and the climate remains habitable. At its core, the foundation is pushing for a future that balances economic growth with environmental and social responsibility.
Main Benefits of the Generation Foundation
Here’s a quick snapshot of what makes this project stand out:
- Industry Focus: Equity investing in Developed Markets
- BCorp Score: An impressive 96.5, reflecting strong social and environmental performance
- Key Themes: Sustainable Capitalism, Investing, Asset Management
- Notable Figures: David Blood and Al Gore, who bring credibility and vision
- Collaborations: Partnerships with PRI and UNEP FI to tackle financial system barriers
The Flagship Project: A Legal Framework for Impact
One of the standout initiatives under the Generation Foundation umbrella is the “Legal Framework for Impact.” This flagship project is a collaboration with the Principles for Responsible Investment (PRI) and the UN Environment Programme Finance Initiative (UNEP FI). The goal? To identify and overcome the legal and regulatory barriers that stand in the way of a financial system aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the critical target of limiting global warming to 1.5°C. It’s a complex challenge, but one that’s essential for steering capital markets toward sustainability.
Partnering with the Greyston Foundation
Since 2018, the Generation Foundation has supported the Greyston Foundation, a US-based charitable organization and social enterprise. Greyston uses employment as a tool to break the cycle of poverty. The Foundation funded the creation of the Greyston Center for Open Hiring™, which helps companies implement Open Hiring practices successfully. This partnership highlights a commitment to social impact, showing that sustainable investing isn’t just about the environment—it’s also about creating inclusive economic opportunities.
Collaboration with the Ada Lovelace Institute
Another exciting partnership is with the Ada Lovelace Institute, focusing on gender inequality. The Generation Foundation supports the development of a new program aimed at addressing gender disparities and embedding research findings into industry practices and policymaking. This collaboration underscores the Foundation’s broader commitment to social justice and equity, ensuring that sustainability efforts are truly inclusive.
Project Impact: Linking to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- SDG 1: No Poverty – through initiatives like Open Hiring with Greyston Foundation
- SDG 5: Gender Equality – via partnership with Ada Lovelace Institute
- SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth – promoting inclusive employment practices
- SDG 13: Climate Action – aligning financial systems with 1.5°C warming limit
- SDG 15: Life on Land – protecting nature through sustainable capitalism
Why Sustainable Capitalism Matters
Sustainable capitalism isn’t just a buzzword here—it’s the driving force behind the Generation Foundation’s work. By rethinking how capital markets operate, the project aims to create a system where financial success goes hand in hand with social and environmental wellbeing. It’s about shifting the narrative from short-term profits to long-term value for all stakeholders. With leaders like David Blood and Al Gore involved, the message is clear: investing with purpose can reshape the future, making prosperity more inclusive and the planet healthier.
