Unitus Equity Fund

Unitus Equity Fund is a private equity fund that focuses on investing in early-stage microfinance institutions across emerging markets. The fund aims to provide financial and social returns by supporting organizations that offer financial services to underserved populations. Its investments are primarily directed towards microfinance institutions operating in Asia and Latin America, with a particular emphasis on India, Indonesia, the Philippines, Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Ethiopia, Ghana, Nigeria, Mexico, Colombia, and Peru.

The fund's investment strategy involves providing equity capital to microfinance institutions that demonstrate strong growth potential and a commitment to serving low-income communities. By investing in these institutions, Unitus Equity Fund seeks to enhance their capacity to deliver financial services to underserved populations, thereby promoting economic self-empowerment and reducing global poverty. The fund's portfolio includes a diverse range of microfinance institutions operating in various sectors, including financial services, technology, healthcare, education, agriculture, renewable energy, affordable housing, clean water, sanitation, transportation, logistics, retail, consumer goods, media, entertainment, telecommunications, infrastructure, real estate, hospitality, and tourism.

Unitus Equity Fund was established in 2006 and closed with $23.4 million in committed capital, making it the largest global equity fund in the microfinance industry to be fully funded with private capital at that time. The fund is managed by Unitus Investment Management, a 501(c)(3) non-profit incorporated in the State of Washington, USA. Unitus Investment Management is a supporting organization for Unitus Labs, which is a non-profit organization focused on reducing global poverty through economic self-empowerment. The fund's mission is to demonstrate that the microfinance industry is a viable opportunity for investors seeking strong financial returns and large-scale impact. By investing in microfinance institutions, Unitus Equity Fund aims to catalyze the market for microfinance investing, particularly in India, and contribute to the growth and sustainability of the microfinance sector.

Unitus Equity Fund's investment philosophy centers on identifying and supporting microfinance institutions that have the potential to scale and serve large numbers of low-income individuals. The fund seeks to partner with organizations that have strong management teams, innovative business models, and a clear commitment to social impact. By providing equity capital, the fund enables these institutions to expand their operations, enhance their product offerings, and improve their financial sustainability. The fund's approach is to be a value-added investor, offering not only capital but also strategic guidance and support to help portfolio companies achieve their growth objectives. Through its investments, Unitus Equity Fund aims to create a positive social impact by improving access to financial services for underserved populations and promoting economic development in emerging markets.