October 6, 2023

We are excited to continue moving money in big ways. We are on a journey with our clients to unlock their investment portfolios and to move their money into solidarity economies. For Chordata, “due diligence” means taking the kinds of risks that our clients came to us to take. Our commitment to our clients is to find projects where it’s strategic to take higher financial risks so that we can build the kind of economy that we all want to live in. We strive not to be conservative out of risk, and always to be clear with clients about where high risks are. 

When considering investments, we meticulously vet risk, communicate transparently with clients, and we invite clients into strategic opportunities. And we’re seeing that those risks are worth it! Some of our major early investments, like Ujima and Seed Commons, have blossomed into powerhouse organizations that are shifting power across the country. 

October 5, 2023

From the beginning, convening people has brought us energy, joy, and new ideas. We know that building trust across class and race is essential to transforming our economy, and convenings have been a key way that we create a bridge between investors and leaders in the solidarity economy. 

We postponed the Chordata Cohort this calendar cycle and are taking time to focus ongrowing our business. As part of this growth, we’re dreaming into what the next iteration of convening looks like for Chordata. 

When we close our eyes, we envision a beautiful gathering in a beautiful place with nourishing food, where we continue to deepen trust with our communities. We imagine new partnerships in creating and holding that space, so we can sustain ourselves in this work. We imagine new ideas and possibilities emerging out of gathering together. 

October 5, 2023

There is a clear need for Chordata’s offerings, and we are proud to say that growth is inevitable. 

People are excited about Chordata! We have growing demands on our business, and we are thrilled to have grown our team in 2023. We are looking toward 2024 and beyond at how we might bring on the folks we need to meet the beautiful asks being made of our work. 

We continue to innovate our model of investment advising. We’ve begun investing in individual companies, which is a major evolution for our business. We have been leveling up our skills as individual investment managers, and are committed to doing so thoughtfully.

After hitting major goals this year – over $135M in AUM, 35+ clients! – we are pausing to reflect. We feel the pull toward ever-increasing money goals, and the constant voice of this economy that says “more, more, more!” While we know we’ll continue to grow, we are defining success on our own terms. Success for us is:

• As women business owners and as a multiracial team, we are committed to prioritizing our well being.
• Sustainability feels like living beautiful, full lives in which we take excellent care of ourselves, our families, and of our joy. 
• Sustainability is something we can feel in the strength of our relationship with each other, with our clients, and with our investments.