Supporting Communities

Through the use of loans, guarantees, equity investments and other financial vehicles, MetLife's Social Investment Program supports community ventures that do not meet customary investment criteria of private and institutional investors. Established in 1984, the Program has made commitments of over $250 million to underwrite projects in affordable housing, commercial revitalization, land preservation, health and rehabilitative treatment centers, business development arts, and education.

Usually structured as loans, social investments offer favorable rates to projects which address significant social needs, but do not satisfy conventional investment criteria. Loan subsidies provide the needed financial cushion to protect the feasibility of the project. Occasionally, the Social Investment Program may take an equity position, guarantee a loan, or target a special bank deposit to achieve its program and financial objectives.

Investments are considered primarily for non-profit organizations and their subsidiaries. Investments with a clearly demonstrated social purpose in for-profit entities are also considered a case-by-case basis. In general the Program is seeking organizations with a record of achievement and the potential for growth that apply innovative approaches to emerging or social problems.