This event is in the past.
Learn more about potential Graduate Business Advisor opportunities with Dev Equity, a social investment fund. The founder and Managing Director Forrest Metz will be holding a Q&A session for interested students on Monday, March 15th. Timing is 12 pm.
What is Dev Equity?
Dev Equity is putting together an innovative investment fund that shall promote broader
economic development in low-income countries by providing long-term equity capital to
socially responsible, commercially viable businesses.
Why is the Fund important?
The traditional foreign assistance model for economic development is not working. There
is a general acknowledgement of the ability of the private sector to contribute to economic
and human development in important ways through socially responsible business
practices.
Low-income countries are generally fast growing markets, and offer unique commercial
prospects. Within these markets there are a significant number of under-developed,
commercially viable business opportunities that involve the “missing-middle” segment,
between large investment projects and micro-finance initiatives.
What is the investment strategy?
Dev Equity’s individual investments shall typically range between 500k to 2.5m USD,
providing longer-term, “patient” capital to businesses owned and operated by experienced
professionals who have a track record of success.
The preference is to take active minority ownership positions in portfolio companies,
through strong governance rights and financial controls, and focusing on realistic exits.
The Fund model is not based on debt; only minimal amounts of leverage shall be used.
What is the Fund’s approach to promoting development?
Dev Equity’s approach includes the use of clear and measurable development indicators in
key areas including: workers health, safety and rights; environmental and social impact of
business activities; human rights; corruption and governance.
The Fund shall implement proactive, socially responsible business practices that exceed
local standards and are in line with international best practices, while working closely with
development organizations to promote broader development objectives.
Event added on Tuesday, 9th March 2010 by 
