The Fund values collaboration. Our Board of Directors and management team regularly build and cultivate strategic relationships in order to leverage dollars, affect policy, and create sustainable, systemic impact. From Chicago Public Schools and Mayor Richard M. Daley to our portfolio program partners and advisory councils, The Fund has created a network of individuals and organizations highly invested in what we do and how well we do it.
Board of Directors
As in venture capital, The Fund raises a large percentage of its dollars from a small group of highly engaged and committed individuals. Members of The Fund’s Board of Directors have contributed 70 percent of The Fund’s capital, which derives almost exclusively from their own personal dollars. They put a lot on the line, and expect a lot in return.More Info
The Fund’s Management Team
The Fund's management team is as great an asset to our success as our financial capital and our portfolio of program investments. Together, members of our team embody a highly effective blend of traits: a serious, disciplined, self–starting attitude; extensive strategic and practical expertise in human capital and education systems; and a fun, energetic, motivated disposition. Our expectations are high, our pace is fast, and we don't miss goals. More Info
The Fund’s Investors
The Fund seeks to be the best vehicle for private sector investment in public education. Our focus and track record of results has attracted a wide set of investors, each believing in our ability to be good stewards of their money and produce a measurable social return. More Info
Portfolio Programs
The Fund bets on bold and innovative ideas that meet our goals and strong management teams who can deliver results. The people behind our programs are education entrepreneurs, breaking new ground and testing new ideas. They are at the forefront of human capital innovations – recruiting, selecting, developing and supporting the best principals and teachers for our schools. Thanks to their efforts, Chicago is being recognized nationally as a leader in human capital for our schools.More Info
Leadership Council
The Fund has a strong track record in engaging a wide range of stakeholders in our work. We value collaboration. Ensuring common ownership over our ventures helps them become scalable and sustainable. Since its founding, The Fund has relied upon its Leadership Council – made up of investors, school district leaders, partners, and local thought leaders – for periodic strategic advice and counsel. They are a great check on our work and a vehicle for our transparency. More Info
Principals and Teachers
The Fund’s business is human capital, the principals and teachers making a difference in our schools every day. Research shows that the people closest to students have the greatest effect on their learning. Investing in those people is the greatest lever we can pull to accelerate student achievement.More Info
Evaluation Advisory Council
The Fund established an Evaluation Advisory Council, comprised of some of the leading local and national experts in education research and evaluation, with specific expertise in relevant programmatic areas, such as whole–school reform and innovation, performance–based compensation, and leadership and teacher quality. The Council provides expert guidance and essential feedback for the design and implementation of The Fund's evaluation strategies. More Info