Spark Ventures invests in sustainable solutions that empower communities around the world.
We have a lasting impact by investing in partners serving under resourced communities. When we direct human and financial resources into education, nutrition, healthcare, job creation, business development and environmental stewardship, we are fostering equitable communities where individuals can achieve their full potential.
Our work is anchored by strategic donors who contribute time, talent, and resources, and by an impact travel program that builds life-changing connections between our stakeholder and partner communities.
Sustainability
At Spark Ventures, we invest in the sustainability of our partner organizations and the communities they support. We define our sustainability efforts in terms of individual, organizational and environmental:
INDIVIDUAL
Supporting partner initiatives and programs with outcomes that increase the self-sufficiency of the individuals/families being served (i.e. education, job creation, healthcare, financial literacy, micro-lending, skills training)
ORGANIZATIONAL
Supporting partner initiatives and programs that create long-term operational and financial health of their organizations (local income generation, capacity building, leadership training, succession planning)
ENVIRONMENTAL
Supporting partner initiatives and programs that contribute to local and global environmental stewardship (recycling/upcycling, land welfare, awareness, advocacy)
Our Values
Spark Ventures’ mission is to invest in sustainable solutions that empower communities around the world. Our work is driven by the following values:
COLLABORATIVE RELATIONSHIPS
working with others who have common goals in order to make the greatest difference in the world
SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY
advancing a society where people accept their responsibility to seek the good of others and to participate in the world as global citizens
MUTUAL ACCOUNTABILITY
pursuing integrity with all partners, associates, and in all resource investments
DEEP HUMILITY
believing there is something to learn from every person and practicing mutual respect and inclusion
HUMAN DIGNITY
considering every person and every child deserving of having their basic needs met and be free from oppression
Our vision is a future where our partners have the opportunity and resources to achieve their potential.
Where We Work
Spark Ventures’ headquarters is in Chicago. Our social-impact partners are grassroots organizations serving children and their families in under-resourced communities around the world. To date, we have four partners in Zambia, Nicaragua, Mexico and Chicago. We work with these partners to create lasting change and ensure that individuals in their communities have access to critical resources. It’s a holistic approach intended to address job creation, empowerment of new leaders and for our international partners, dependence on foreign aid.
Consider joining us by investing financially, attending an event, or traveling with us. We would also love to hear from you with any questions or comments. Please reach out to Kristin Schrepferman by e-mail (kschrepferman@sparkventures.org) or by calling, 773-293-6710.
