A recent Forbes article highlights the initial investments made by RuralWorks Partners that focus on two Maine-based enterprises—American Unagi, specializing in sushi-grade American eels using proven European technology, and TimberHP, a company producing environmentally friendly building insulation from waste wood fiber. American Unagi, founded by Sara Rademaker, adopts a recirculating aquaculture system to streamline the […]
Category: News
RuralWorks Partners selected for ImpactAlpha’s The Liist for February 2024
RuralWorks was recently included in Impact Alpha’s February edition of The Liist, which highlights several fund strategies to build inclusive communities and wealth. The article emphasized RuralWorks’ commitment to investing in rural businesses with an environmental focus, including sustainable agribusinesses, local and regional food systems, as well as waste recycling and the circular economy.
RuralWorks Announces Strategic Investment in American Unagi, Pioneering Sustainable Aquaculture
MINNEAPOLIS & MIDDLEBURY, Vt.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–RuralWorks Partners, LLC (RuralWorks), an impact-driven investment firm committed to fostering rural community growth and environmental sustainability, proudly announces its strategic investment in American Unagi, Inc. (AU), the only producer and processor in the US of locally sourced and harvested American Eel (also known as Unagi). Located in rural Maine, this […]
RuralWorks Invests in TimberHP, Reinforcing Commitment to Sustainable Solutions and Rural Community Development
MINNEAPOLIS & MIDDLEBURY, Vt.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–RuralWorks Partners, LLC (RuralWorks), an impact investment firm committed to rural communities and environmental sustainability, proudly announces its inaugural investment in TimberHP, a leading manufacturer specializing in wood fiber insulation solutions. This investment marks a milestone for both companies as they join forces to foster sustainable growth, create quality jobs, and […]
RuralWorks Aims To Boost Rural Economies, Climate-Smart Agriculture, Local Food Systems
Businesses in rural communities typically fall under the radar of growth-equity investors. “Traditional sources of venture capital don’t go to these markets,” says Melissa Obegi, president of impact investor Conduit Capital, U.S. “They often stick with a more tried-and-true footprint.” That’s why RuralWorks Partners was formed. Launched last year by Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) Community Reinvestment Fund, USA and […]
RuralWorks Partners Announces Inaugural RuralWorks Impact Fund to Invest in Growth Stage Rural Businesses
MINNEAPOLIS & MIDDLEBURY, Vt.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–RuralWorks Partners, LLC (RuralWorks), a USDA-licensed Rural Business Investment Company (RBIC), today announced the launch of its inaugural fund, RuralWorks Impact Partners 1, L.P. which will back emerging growth stage businesses operating in rural communities in the United States that advance sustainable and regenerative agriculture, forest products, waste stream upcycling, the […]
RuralWorks selected as a finalist for the Grunin Prize
We are thrilled and honored that RuralWorks and Conduit Capital have been selected as a Grunin Prize finalist for the RuralWorks joint venture between Conduit Capital and Community Reinvestment Fund, USA. We are so proud that our very own Terry Farley, COO of RuralWorks and Melissa Obegi, President of Conduit Capital were recognized for their important contributions […]
Community Reinvestment Fund, USA and Conduit Capital Partner to Help Rural Small Business Communities
New partnership focused on providing access to capital and business services in rural communities to increase economic mobility, generate community wealth and build a more equitable and resilient rural economy. MINNEAPOLIS & LONDON–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Community Reinvestment Fund, USA (CRF) – a national non-profit organization with a mission to improve lives and strengthen communities through innovative financial solutions […]