In this episode of Investing in Impact, I chat with Liesel Pritzker Simmons and Ian Simmons, the dynamic duo behind Blue Haven Initiative—one of the first family offices designed from the ground up for impact investing.
We explore how they’ve leveraged innovative strategies to achieve competitive financial returns and drive meaningful environmental and social change.
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👥 Meet the Founders
Liesel Pritzker Simmons
Role: Co-Founder & Principal, Blue Haven Initiative
Expertise: Investment Strategy, ESG Integration, Philanthropy
Liesel leads investment strategy at Blue Haven, overseeing a diverse portfolio designed to generate both strong financial returns and measurable impact. The portfolio includes:
- Public and private equities
- Direct investments
- Fixed income
- Philanthropic initiatives
She is also the Co-Founder of the IDP Foundation, where she launched the IDP Rising Schools Program—an initiative supporting 450+ low-cost private schools across underserved global regions using microfinance networks.
Ian Simmons
Role: Co-Founder & Principal, Blue Haven Initiative
Focus: Democracy, Civic Leadership, Multi-Asset Impact Investing
Ian shares leadership of Blue Haven and is passionate about aligning investment with civic and democratic progress. His multi-asset approach includes:
- Direct investments
- Public/private equity
- Alternatives and fixed income
- Philanthropic capital
Ian also serves as:
- President, Foundation for Civic Leadership
- Chair, Youth Engagement Fund
- Board Member, U.S. Impact Investing Alliance, Social Finance, Issue One, Organizing for Action, and Karibu Homes (Kenya)
🌍 What is Blue Haven Initiative?
Blue Haven Initiative is a trailblazing family office fully dedicated to impact investing—seeking both market-rate financial returns and maximum social and environmental benefit.
Core Principles:
- Apply ESG criteria across the portfolio
- Align for-profit and philanthropic capital under one strategy
- Pursue returns appropriate to each asset class or venture
- Source and manage direct investments in-house
Areas of Impact:
- Frontier markets and the United States
- Early-stage businesses that:
- Raise living standards
- Deliver sustainable products and services
- Create equitable economic opportunities
- Partnerships with other investors to accelerate scale and influence
💡 Final Thoughts
Liesel and Ian’s story is a powerful case study in what’s possible when legacy capital is intentionally redirected toward a better future. From education to entrepreneurship, from civic leadership to clean innovation—Blue Haven Initiative exemplifies the future of investing with purpose.
