And so, the story of Jen Astone begins. A financial activist and philanthropic leader, Jen has been making waves in the world of sustainable finance for over two decades. But who is she really? And why should you care? Well, buckle up, because we’re about to dive into the fascinating world of Jen Astone and her mission to transform finance for people and the planet.
The Early Days
So, where did it all start for Jen Astone? Well, her journey began at Barnard College, where she earned a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science and Government[1]. But Jen didn’t stop there. Nope, she went on to get her Ph.D. in Anthropology from Binghamton University[1]. Talk about brains!
But Jen’s not just about book smarts. She’s got real-world experience too. After college, she jumped right into the deep end, working as a Grants Analyst for the African Development Foundation[1]. And that was just the beginning.
A Career in Philanthropy
Jen’s career really took off when she joined the Global Fund for Women as a Program Officer for Africa[1]. Here, she got her hands dirty reviewing grant proposals and making recommendations for women’s human rights issues across the African continent. Pretty cool, right?
But Jen was just getting started. She went on to become the Executive Director of the Firelight Foundation, where she spent seven years making a difference[1]. And then, in 2011, she took on the role of Executive Director at the Swift Foundation[1].
At Swift, Jen really found her groove. She focused on supporting cultural and biological diversity, with a special emphasis on land stewards and agroecology[7]. It’s like she was planting seeds of change, and boy, did they grow!
The Birth of Integrated Capital Investing
After eight years at Swift, Jen decided it was time for a new challenge. So, in 2019, she launched Integrated Capital Investing[1]. And what’s that, you ask? Well, it’s all about using all the tools in the financial toolbox – grants, investments, and leadership – to create equitable, regenerative, and restorative economies[5].
But Jen didn’t stop there. Nope, she also started publishing something called The Transformative 25[5]. It’s a list of funds that are shaking up the world of finance for people and the planet. Pretty neat, huh?
Jen’s Expertise
Now, you might be wondering, what exactly is Jen an expert in? Well, let me tell you, her knowledge is as diverse as the ecosystems she’s trying to protect. Here are just a few areas where Jen shines:
- Cross-cultural competency
- Climate solutions
- Healthy food
- Agroecology
- Indigenous Peoples[1]
And that’s not all. Jen’s also got a knack for investment, management, fundraising, board development, and advocacy[1]. Talk about a jack of all trades!
The AgroEcology Fund and Global Alliance
But wait, there’s more! Jen’s not just about her own projects. She’s also a team player. She leads Swift Foundation’s work with two sustainable agriculture collaboratives: the AgroEcology Fund and the Global Alliance for the Future of Food[7].
These collaboratives are all about promoting sustainable farming practices and food sovereignty. It’s like Jen’s helping to grow a healthier future for all of us. How cool is that?
Indigenous Rights and Resource Advocacy
And Jen’s not just about plants and food. She’s also a champion for Indigenous rights. She supports initiatives with First Nations and civil society in the Sacred Headwaters region of Northwest British Columbia[7]. Plus, she works with food sovereignty advocates in Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru[7].
It’s like Jen’s on a mission to make sure everyone has a seat at the table – and enough food to eat!
The Transformative 25 List
Remember that Transformative 25 list we mentioned earlier? Well, it’s kind of a big deal. Jen curates this annual list of integrated capital funds that are transforming finance for people and planet[1].
But what exactly is integrated capital? Well, it’s about using all the financial tools at your disposal – not just grants, but investments and leadership too – to create positive change. It’s like Jen’s cooking up a recipe for a better world, and these funds are the key ingredients.
Jen’s Approach to Philanthropy
So, what makes Jen’s approach to philanthropy special? Well, for starters, she’s all about trust-based approaches and using a ‘beginner’s mind'[1]. What does that mean? It’s about approaching each situation with fresh eyes and an open mind.
And Jen’s not just about throwing money at problems. Nope, she’s committed to social justice and a just transition[1]. It’s like she’s not just trying to put a band-aid on the world’s problems – she’s looking for real, lasting solutions.
The Power of Collaboration
One thing that really stands out about Jen is her love for collaboration. She’s not a lone wolf. Instead, she’s all about bringing people together to create change.
For example, in her current role as Ecosystem Director at Collective Action for Just Finance, Jen facilitates a group of funds, intermediaries, investors, and individuals[1]. Together, they’re working to shift power and mobilize capital for financial justice. It’s like Jen’s the conductor of a financial orchestra, making sure everyone’s playing in harmony.
Jen’s Impact by the Numbers
Now, let’s talk numbers. Over her 20-year career, Jen has implemented people-centered grant programs resulting in over 1300 grants[1]. And we’re not talking small change here. These grants totaled $30 million, directed to programs led by women, Indigenous Peoples, activists, and community leaders in over 60 countries[1].
That’s a lot of zeros, and a lot of lives changed. It’s like Jen’s been planting seeds of change all over the world, and now we’re starting to see the forest grow.
Jen’s Writing and Thought Leadership
But Jen’s not just about action. She’s also a thinker and a writer. She’s been recognized for her integrated capital work that champions people and planet-centered businesses, communities, and entrepreneurs[1].
And get this – she even has her own newsletter[1]. It’s like Jen’s not just working behind the scenes, she’s also sharing her knowledge with the world. Talk about spreading the wealth!
The Challenges of Philanthropy
Now, you might be thinking, “This all sounds great, but surely there must be challenges?” And you’d be right. Philanthropy isn’t all sunshine and roses.
One of the big debates in the field is whether foundations should “sunset” (meaning, spend all their money and close down) or remain in perpetuity[7]. It’s a tricky question with no easy answers. But you can bet Jen’s got some thoughts on the matter!
Tips for Grant Seekers
Here’s a little insider info for you. When it comes to writing grant proposals, most people miss the mark. But Jen’s got some tips[7]. While we don’t know the exact tips, we can guess they probably include things like:
- Clearly stating your mission and goals
- Showing how your project aligns with the foundation’s objectives
- Providing concrete plans and measurable outcomes
It’s like Jen’s giving us a peek behind the curtain of the philanthropic world.
Jen’s Inspirations
Every great leader has their inspirations, and Jen’s no exception. While we don’t have a specific list, we can imagine she looks up to other pioneers in sustainable finance and social justice.
Maybe she’s inspired by people like Woody Tasch, founder of the Slow Money movement, or Ellen Dorsey of the Wallace Global Fund[7]. It’s like Jen’s standing on the shoulders of giants, and reaching even higher.
The Future of Finance
So, what’s next for Jen Astone and the world of sustainable finance? Well, if Jen has anything to say about it, the future looks bright.
With her work at Integrated Capital Investing and her role in various collaboratives, Jen’s helping to shape a financial system that works for everyone – not just the top 1%. It’s like she’s rewriting the rules of finance, with people and the planet in mind.
Conclusion
And there you have it, folks. That’s Jen Astone in a nutshell – though to be fair, it’s a pretty big nutshell! From her early days studying anthropology to her current role as a leader in sustainable finance, Jen’s been on quite a journey.
But more than that, she’s taking us all on a journey towards a more equitable, sustainable future. Through her work in integrated capital, agroecology, and Indigenous rights, Jen’s showing us that finance can be a force for good.
So, the next time you hear the name Jen Astone, you’ll know – that’s not just a name. It’s a movement. A movement towards a world where finance works for everyone, where Indigenous rights are respected, and where our food systems nourish both people and the planet.
And who knows? Maybe you’ll be inspired to join the movement too. After all, as Jen Astone shows us, one person really can make a difference. And that’s pretty darn cool.
