On January 14 2025 the Opportunity Fund received a loan application from the Bainbridge Island Land Trust.  On January 22 the Fund advised the Trust that their application had been approved. 

The Land Trust had identified the  38.7-acre Grand Forest East property as a very high priority for preserving one of the last remaining undeveloped and unprotected parcels of its size on the Island.  This acquisition would safeguard a cherished community resource, protect critical ecological systems, connect wildlife habitats, enhance watershed health, and secure public recreational opportunities. The property connects to a vast network of conserved lands, making up more than 580 contiguous, undeveloped acres at the center of the Island.

The Land Trust, in partnership with other Island organizations, had successfully negotiated a deal with the seller, who required a rapid closing. While the Land Trust was confident it could raise the necessary funds through private philanthropy, it anticipated that organizing a fundraising campaign would take time. The Washington Opportunity Fund quickly approved a $500,000 loan, giving the Land Trust the financial backing it needed to move forward with confidence and secure the property. In the end, private philanthropy came through faster than expected and the loan was not needed — but having it available was essential in making the transaction possible.