Developing a Benchmark Framework for Evaluating Fund Performance in Impact-Oriented Portfolios

The McConnell Foundation invests across a diverse portfolio of fund managers with the goal of generating both financial returns and meaningful social and environmental impact. As the Foundation continues to expand its impact investing activities, the ability to evaluate portfolio performance in a consistent and market-relevant way has become increasingly important.
This project aims to develop a structured approach to benchmarking investment portfolios managed by fund managers across multiple asset classes, including private equity, venture capital, and other alternative investments. By identifying comparable peer groups and aligning them with appropriate market benchmarks, the project will help establish a clearer basis for evaluating financial performance in context.
The work will involve analyzing how different fund characteristics affect performance, and mapping these characteristics to relevant benchmark data. The project will also explore how portfolio performance can be assessed relative to broader market conditions, incorporating both return and risk considerations. Through this process, the project will contribute to building a more robust framework for comparing portfolio performance, supporting more informed investment decision-making.

Faculty Supervisor:

Paul Beaumont

Student:

Partner:

Fondation McConnell

Discipline:

Business

Sector:

Other services (except public administration)

University:

McGill University

Program: