Case Study Firebrand

"Firebrand aims to lead a new wave of capitalism that uses business to tackle complex societal problems," explains Matt. "We believe that business can create shared value for employees and the community." To safeguard this mission and attract aligned investors, Matt transitioned Firebrand to steward-ownership in 2020 by using a Purpose Trust structure and paired it with mission-aligned growth capital.

In partnership with Candide Group, ICA, and Purpose, Firebrand developed an investment structure for its $2.5 million equity raise that enables the company to grow sustainably while providing investor returns and sharing wealth with the community, all without requiring a company sale. This structure also ensured that employees and community organizations dedicated to supporting the formerly incarcerated and homeless in Oakland have a voice in the company's stewardship and financially benefit from its growth.