Return Definitions

A financial return is a direct payment or recognized financial gain — a distribution, repayment, revenue participation, member rebate, discount received, income earned, or asset appreciation. Financial value is broader: it includes local spending retained, cost savings, or business relationships formed that create economic value without a direct payment.

Milestones the venture itself achieves: revenue growth, new product launches, capacity added, or market validation reached.

New services, products, or opportunities that would not otherwise exist in a place — a nearby grocery, a training program, a childcare option.

Hours saved by contributors, employees, or customers because a venture exists — shorter commutes, faster service, fewer errands.

Events, meals, performances, and shared moments the venture creates for the community.

New introductions, partnerships, and community connections that arise from the venture.

Jobs supported, apprenticeships opened, suppliers engaged, and customers served locally.

Longer-term strengthening of the place: retained local spending, new organizations, and infrastructure improvements.

For every claim, confidence is scored on a scale reflecting how well the outcome is documented: self-reported, contributor- attested, third-party evidenced, or independently verified.