Arc Chicago, LLC

Overview

Arc Chicago, LLC is a private investment firm based in Chicago, Illinois, established to facilitate impact investments in the city's communities. The firm was created by the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation to implement the Benefit Chicago initiative, a collaboration with The Chicago Community Trust and Calvert Impact Capital. This initiative aims to mobilize catalytic capital for nonprofits and social enterprises in Chicago, with a special focus on low-income and underinvested communities. Arc Chicago, LLC's investment strategy includes providing loans and investments to community development financial institutions, nonprofit organizations, social enterprises, affordable housing developers, and initiatives supporting entrepreneurs and managers in marginalized communities. The firm has made over $114 million in investment commitments to 30 such entities, supporting projects that create jobs, build wealth, and address social and economic challenges. The firm's investment philosophy centers on leveraging capital to drive positive social impact, particularly in communities of color and historically marginalized areas. By focusing on sectors such as affordable housing, social enterprises, and community development, Arc Chicago, LLC seeks to foster economic growth and resilience in Chicago's underserved neighborhoods. The firm's approach combines financial returns with measurable social outcomes, aligning with the broader goals of the Benefit Chicago initiative.