"About Us
Mission Statement
The Soros Economic Development Fund (SEDF) supports economic
development in post-conflict countries and in nations transitioning to
democracy. We promote economic opportunities and access to information,
products and services for underserved populations. We invest in
sustainable businesses or initiatives that strive to alleviate poverty
by creating jobs and revitalizing deteriorating communities. SEDF is a
nonprofit private foundation that is part of the Open Society Foundations,
a network of charitable foundations created by investor and
philanthropist George Soros. Established in 1997, SEDF has over $200
million in investment capital and employs 15 people in New York,
Budapest, Freetown, Johannesburg and Nairobi.
Investment Criteria
Investments amounts range between $500K and $10 million. SEDF is
dedicated to helping talented management teams and entrepreneurs build
value in their companies. We focus on ambitious projects that:
- Are Innovative – Each project should create, deliver or provide access to information, goods or services that address a critical need for the underserved populations in our strategic and geographic focus areas;
- Generate Multiple Social Benefits – Each project must create jobs, increase the incomes of an underserved population and / or promote community development;
- Demonstrate Sustainability and Profitability – Each project must show the potential for financial sustainability and eventual profitability within a five- to seven-year period, including the ability to cover operating expenses with operating revenues;
- Involve Strong Local Management – We look for strong locally based management teams that have relevant experience, proven success and clear leadership in their chosen field; and
- Meet the Internal Revenue Services’ Program-Related Investment Criteria...."
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