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Impact Investing vs Philanthropic Contributions – What’s the Difference

philanthropy on block letters

When it comes to making a positive difference in the world, impact investing and philanthropic contributions are two approaches that often come to mind. While both aim to create social and environmental change, their methods and outcomes differ.

Impact Investing

Impact investing involves allocating capital toward businesses or projects that generate measurable social or environmental impact alongside financial returns. It is a strategy that seeks to align financial goals with positive societal outcomes. By investing in companies or initiatives that prioritize sustainability, equality, or other social causes, impact investors aim to drive positive change while still expecting a reasonable return on their investment.

Philanthropic Contributions

On the other hand, philanthropic contributions involve donating money or resources to charitable organizations or causes without expecting any financial return. Philanthropy is driven by a desire to support and uplift communities, address societal issues, and improve the quality of life for those in need. It often takes the form of grants, sponsorships, scholarships, or direct assistance provided by individuals, foundations, corporations, or other entities.

What’s The Difference?

While impact investing and philanthropic contributions share the goal of creating positive change in society, they differ in approach and expected outcomes. Impact investing combines financial goals with social impact objectives while philanthropy focuses solely on giving back without seeking any monetary returns.

Ultimately, whether one chooses impact investing or philanthropic contributions depends on their personal values and desired approach toward effecting change. Some may prefer the potential for financial returns alongside social impact offered by impact investing while others may find fulfillment through direct giving without any expectation of financial gain.

Investing with Bloom to Fulfill Your Investing And/Or Philanthropic Goals

For close to 40 years Bloom Investment Counsel, Inc. has been providing personalized investment management services for wealthy individuals, family offices, foundations, corporations, institutions and trusts and helps many of its clients fulfill both their investment and philanthropic goals. Contact us today at info@bloominvestmentcounsel.com to learn more about how we can help you achieve your goals.


This content is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, tax, legal or accounting advice nor does it constitute an offer or solicitation to buy or sell any securities referred to. Individual circumstances and current events are critical to sound investment planning; anyone wishing to act on this content should consult with his or her financial partner or advisor.

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