IE CEO Jessica Droste Yagan writes:
Every time I attend the Mission Investors Exchange National Conference, I leave heartened by the growing sophistication of foundations aligning their assets with their missions — and this year was no exception. Alongside inspiring examples of catalytic, place-based and thematic investments, I noticed something broader taking shape: more and more voices gaining clarity on the bigger picture.
One speaker put it simply and powerfully: "Our fiduciary duty is to protect and grow the mission, not the endowment."
This reframing matters. Stewarding the endowment is important — it deserves serious attention — but it's a means, not an end. It exists in service of the mission. And if that's true, then at minimum, your endowment investments shouldn't undermine what you're working toward. At best, they could actively advance it.
IE Chief Investment Officer Priya Parrish writes:
Attending the PEI Impact Investor Global Summit was energizing and productive. It is one of the best global convenings, where prominent GPs, LPs, and field builders discuss the state of the industry, investment themes, and risks. I spoke on an LP-only panel where we covered topics ranging from impact management convergence to GP stakes for emerging managers. I was especially impressed by the commitment and sophistication of the impact approaches used by European institutions.
This month we are delighted to share two promotions from inside our team. Ander Iruretagoyena will now have the title of Principal, and Demetrius Palmer has been promoted to the role of Associate. Thank you for all your contributions, Ander and Demetrius!
Alcanza Clinical Research, the science site provider focused on inclusive medical trials, opened a new research unit in Peoria, Illinois. The 10,000 square foot facility is its second new site this year, after previously opening a clinical trial site in Phoenix, Arizona in April. The company's mission, to expand clinical research to populations that might otherwise be missed – resulting in more robust medical science – was recently honored with the Healthcare Private Equity Association Impact Award.
Kin Insurance, the home coverage provider that focuses on severe weather regions prone to earthquakes, wildfires, and hurricanes, has secured a $335 million catastrophe bond. “This is our fourth catastrophe bond, and with each one, the terms improve while investor demand grows,” says Kin Founder and CEO Sean Harper. “This year’s deal is our largest yet, covering more of the country than ever before, and achieving our best pricing to date."
Twentyeight Health, the women's health platform providing contraceptives, skin care, and more, announced a partnership with ŌURA, the most popular smart ring. For the first time, sleep, cycle and symptom data can be synced from the rings worn by users who opt in to Twentyeight's secure system where clinicians can use it for more accurate, personalized care.