Charter School Growth Fund

The Charter School Growth Fund (CSGF) is a philanthropic venture capital organization that focuses on expanding high-quality public charter schools, particularly in underserved communities. Founded in 2005 and based in Colorado, CSGF has invested in over 1,600 schools across 32 states, including Washington D.C. and Puerto Rico. Their mission is to provide more educational opportunities to students from low-income backgrounds and communities of color, with 89% of students in their portfolio schools being students of color and 77% from economically disadvantaged families. CSGF supports schools through multi-year philanthropic investments, offering both funding and strategic support to grow networks of successful schools. Their portfolio includes standout names like IDEA Public Schools, KIPP, and Harmony Public Schools, which have significantly improved access to quality education in their regions. These investments are tailored to the specific needs of each school, from expanding facilities to implementing new learning models. Their funding strategy is data-driven, using rigorous analysis of academic outcomes and leadership potential to guide investments. CSGF also fosters a community among its portfolio schools, facilitating peer learning and offering resources for leadership development. In addition to financing, CSGF provides low-interest loans and technical support to help schools overcome facility-related challenges. Through this holistic approach, they aim to serve one million students in the coming years, ensuring that all children have access to excellent educational options.