Endowments of colleges and universities in the US total more than US$250 billion, and US foundation assets are now more than US$500 billion. The invested assets of endowments and foundations are a major resource of society in the US and support education and scientific research, as well as cultural and charitable institutions.

However, public colleges and their respective senior investment executives are facing increasing pressure to deliver strong returns on their investment and allocation strategies in a climate that presents new investment opportunities, but also heightened regulation.

The economic downturn that resulted from the recession ravaged investment portfolios worldwide and US endowment funds suffered like any other. However, US university endowments made a sharp turnaround in 2010, returning an average of 11.9 per cent after falling steeply during the financial crisis and senior investment executives are ready once more to develop aggressive investment plans balanced with diligent risk that can deliver substantial returns in the current economy.

The Next Generation Endowment Summit US brings together executives who are currently investing in innovative funds and investments that will positively impact their bottom line.