Grantee Profile

As the only venture philanthropy exclusively focused on Employment Social Enterprises (ESEs), REDF invests in businesses that hire, train, and support people facing steep barriers to employment (e.g. justice system-impacted, homeless, etc.) By doing so, REDF brings hidden talent into the workforce and provides critical pathways to stability and success.

Founded in 1997 with the question, “what would happen if we applied the principles of venture capital to social solutions to help them to scale?”, REDF has grown from supporting 14 Bay Area businesses to championing 302 enterprises across 41 states. These enterprises, which have generated over $2.5 billion in revenue and created over 133,500 jobs, demonstrate REDF’s commitment to scaling social enterprises that create lasting impact.

As the private sector reimagines what it means to be a truly inclusive employer, and the public sector unlocks capital to fuel innovations at scale, both sectors rely on REDF’s ~30 years of experience in moving from a regional to a statewide to a national movement. By funding proven solutions and smart experimentation, REDF ensures its investments not only expand opportunities but also create equitable outcomes across the nation.

About Our Grants

In 2021, the Woodcock Foundation awarded REDF a five-year, $1,080,000 grant to REDF’s continued efforts to create jobs and pathways to employment for people facing the greatest barriers to work.