insights
that ignite

That hope comes from the social entrepreneurs who made bold pivots to preserve and advance their missions in a challenging environment; from our peers, partners, and supporters who stepped up their giving when they could have easily stepped back; and from our dedicated staff and Board, who are responsive to the evolving needs of the organizations we have the privilege of supporting.

As a student of history and a futurist, I know that lasting change will not come from a single solution, leader, or organization. The challenges before us—as we approach the 250th birthday of the signing of the Declaration of Independence—are too complex, and the stakes too high, for any one of us to solve alone.

Through the ups and downs of this year, I’ve been reflecting on what it means to move from independence to interdependence. When we bring together people who carry different perspectives and lived experiences, we begin to see what’s truly possible. These are The M.I.C.™ constellations that will help us chart the pathways to a future where everyone can thrive.

In these constellations, each of us has a role to play. At New Profit, our role is to provide the capital, capacity, and community that fuel organizations reimagining America’s systems of opportunity. This year, we took an important step to understand the impact of that work. In the largest third-party evaluation in New Profit’s history, findings confirmed that when we build trusted relationships, both within affinity and across difference, organizations thrive and their impact multiplies:

• 100 percent of social entrepreneurs reported satisfaction with their New Profit relationship, and 92 percent said they benefited “a great deal.”
• Over half reported stronger access to networks and greater field influence.
• Both alumni and current social entrepreneurs cited gains in impact, reach, and funding opportunities.
• More than three-quarters of social entrepreneurs described their Deal Partner—the New Profit staff member who works most closely with them—as a “trusted ally” and “critical friend.”

These findings, which you can read more about in this report, are more than data points—they’re proof of what’s possible when we invest in proximate expertise and leadership. These findings show the power of doing this work together.

As I look ahead to this milestone year for America, I hold this truth to be self-evident: progress will not come from a single shining star but from a constellation of leaders working together. Thank you for being part of the New Profit community.

With gratitude,

Tulaine Montgomery
New Profit CEO