The Nation’s First Democratically-Governed Investment Fund Passes
$1 Million Deployment Milestone

Boston Ujima Project has officially deployed $1.3 million to BIPOC-owned, socially impactful businesses in Boston’s working-class communities of color through the Ujima Fund. On the occasion of this historic milestone, Nia K. Evans, Executive Director, said, "That we are now going into our eighth investment vote, having surpassed $1 million invested, shows that we are concretely rethinking, reevaluating, reframing and redefining the rules, customs, and norms that shape our lives. Real power and democracy are becoming more and more normal as we continue to practice better ways of being."

Over three years, Ujima Fund has made seven investments democratically approved by Ujima’s voting members. These investments encompass a diverse range of companies, including Cero Cooperative, Dorchester Food Cooperative, Jazz Urbane Cafe, Kush Groove Clothing, LLC, Comfort Kitchen, Cupcake Therapy, and The Pearl South Bay.

The success of these investments showcases the effectiveness of Ujima's democratic decision-making process. The involvement of voting members, who come from diverse backgrounds and possess a deep understanding of our communities needs, ensures that investment decisions align with the values and aspirations of the people.

As we celebrate this historic milestone, we recognize that our work is far from over. The Ujima Fund remains dedicated to continuing its mission of returning wealth to our communities, fostering economic democracy, and challenging traditional norms. We extend our gratitude to the Ujima Fund's voting members, volunteers, solidarity members, and partners for their tireless efforts in making these investments possible.