Fellow Spotlight: Eleri Jones

We're constantly inspired by the remarkable ways the On Purpose community creates impact and brings about transformative change. This month we're excited to shine a light on Eleri Jones from our October 2021 Associate Programme cohort!

"I joined the Associate Programme in October 2021 and have spent the time since then working for Sumerian Foundation, minus a brief interlude spent travelling South America.

Sumerian Foundation is an impact first social investor supporting organisations that tackle UK social inequality. We’re a tiny team of 5, fueled primarily by welsh cakes baked by our CFO Amy, and now have 21 organisations in our portfolio. 

We aim to invest in lived experience founders, or those who have been historically excluded from accessing funding. Alongside the cash, we provide ‘more than money’ in the form of support and mentorship. This often becomes the element of Sumerian investment that our partners value the most, because we recognise that whilst you may be an expert in improving outcomes for looked-after children or reducing recidivism rates, financial forecasts or governance may not be your bag, so we’re here to help. 

My favourite part of the job is working with our founders. I’m always in complete awe of their tenacity, ability to drive change, and general good vibes in the face of huge social issues. Being an enabler in them maximising their impact, or a sounding board in a crisis definitely plays to the skill set from my pre-On Purpose life, and all that I learnt on the Associate Programme.

We’re always looking for more organisations to invest in so if you know of any incredible social enterprises looking for funding then drop me a line. Impact DNA, passionate founders and a track record of revenue generation are our only criteria, so if these apply then I’d love a classic On Purpose coffee chat."