IGNITE CAPITAL FUND I

We Invested in the Future. And It’s Growing.

Ignite Fund was designed to fuel the growth of social enterprises, with a special focus on those led by historically marginalised populations in Baltimore.

Ignite Fund was our first bold step: a catalytic pool of mission-driven capital to help social enterprises in Baltimore not just survive — but thrive.

Ignite Capital Fund at a Glance

We raised catalytic capital to invest in businesses rooted in community, advancing racial equity, creating jobs, and revitalizing commercial corridors. Beyond funding, we offered mentorship, market access, and a network of support — because growing an equitable economy requires more than just dollars.

   

IGNITE CAPITAL Fund was built to back the entrepreneurs already rebuilding their communities — we simply gave them the resources to go further.

       

Geographic Focus: e.g., “Investing in social enterprises and historically underinvested neighborhoods in Baltimore City

What’s Changed

- Impact Metrics by Category -

Portfoli Activity

Pending – Average Revenue Growth (Updated data coming soon)

Pending – Jobs Supported Across Portfolio (Tracking in progress)

Ignite Capital is committed to investing in diverse entrepreneurs, with

100% OF INVESTMENTS IN COMPANIES LED BY PEOPLE OF COLOR
60% LED OR CO-LED BY WOMEN OR NON-BINARY INDIVIDUALS

Meet Some Portfolio Entrepreneurs

Jeanelle Spencer

Travis Bell

Black Acres Roastery
Food Manufacturing

Melissa Chin

Resonate Baltimore
Arts and Culture

Bianca Wise

Wise Choice Home Care
Health/Human Services

Susan Clayton

WhitePaws RunMitts
Manufacturing

Sid Sharma

Wild Bay Kombucha
Food Manufacturing

Looking Ahead - Ascend Fund

Fund II Invitation

Fund I proved what’s possible. Now, we’re building on that momentum with Ascend Fund (Fund II.)

  • Fund II Goal: $15M
  • Focus: Follow-on investments, new enterprise support, neighborhood-based wealth building

What’s new: Expanded technical assistance, more flexible capital options, and national co-investment partners

“This is not just about funding social enterprises. It’s about funding futures.”