Our strategy areas are not stand-alone investment areas, but mirroring traditional African societies, they are circular. Each area impacts the other and neither can be addressed in isolation. They were chosen because we believe they are among the root causes of struggle for Black people any where we find ourselves in the world. We aim to provide more space for Black leaders in the sector to build solutions that can center Black-people and address root causes.

Wealth

The Imperative will fund strategies that can catalyze ethical wealth creation for Black people. Black people have a right to live free from the oppressive burdens of poverty. Poverty has been the tool used to limit the freedom, creativity, vitality and health of Black people for generations. Until we develop a new economic system, we believe it’s our duty to ensure that Black people have a source of reserves individually and collectively to draw on in times of trouble, or to invest in our social, intellectual and economic aspirations.

Health

The Imperative will fund strategies that positively impact the social, psychological, emotional and physical ability for Black people to operate optimally. Navigating a world dominated by white supremacist ideology has resulted in poorer health outcomes for Black people globally (compared to their localized non-Black peers). In particular, Black people suffer disproportionately from chronic disease tied to stress and/or economic status.  Our work will be to invest in creative ways to minimize the impact of these stressors by funding programs that build the esteem and capacities of Black people.

Connectedness

The Imperative will fund strategies that will have a positive impact on the collective effectiveness of Black people globally.  Historically, the separation of Black people from each other has been a tool used to undermine our power and drain our energy. The practice continues to be used against us today.  We believe there is a yearning for reconnection despite generations of separation. In order to support each other, we must see each other. The Imperative will invest in strategies to strengthen historical, cultural, and social and economic connection among Black people in the US, Africa, and the Diaspora.