Research Associate

Jacob joined Sagamore Institute in 2018 and provides data-informed insights and effective strategies for Sagamore’s work in community and economic development, philanthropy, and impact investing. His portfolio of work includes contributions to program evaluations for nonprofits with local, state, and international scale; primary research for foundations and other funders; financial analysis for a collective impact alliance; and an inclusive talent development program design for an anchor employer.  Jacob also serves as project director for an ongoing collaboration promoting future-informed economic development in Indiana that in 2024 produced a book, Workforce 2040: Pathways to Prosperity.

As program manager of Commonwealth Impact Investing from 2018-22 at Sagamore, Jacob established foundational investment selection and portfolio management processes as Commonwealth grew its AUM from $0.5M to $7.5M across 33 investments.  Jacob sourced deals for 6 pitch competitions, led due diligence, implemented portfolio management strategies, and built investment reporting systems.  In this role, Jacob brought commercial best practices to complement impact-forward investment theses as he reviewed hundreds of deals, managed active investments, and developed reporting for investors, external stakeholders, and board members.

Prior to his work at Sagamore, Jacob was a business analyst at Red Ventures, a digital marketing technology company, where he analyzed business trends and operationalized improvements for Fortune 500 companies.  He studied business administration at UNC’s Kenan-Flagler Business School with an emphasis in consulting and attended Chapel Hill Bible Church.  One of Sagamore’s founding senior fellows mentored Jacob as he completed his Eagle Scout project in partnership with a national youth disaster preparedness nonprofit.