We identify, fund, and help scale AI-powered solutions that drive generational impact and economic empowerment for underserved communities around the world.
Founded by entrepreneurs Darr Aley and Jens Hoj, Backyards is a 501(c)(3) non-profit with a bold 100-year vision to "clean up our backyards" through strategic investment, education, and awareness.
Backyards is built on a comprehensive nonprofit and for-profit Platform to create lasting social impact through technology and innovation.
Building our core plan to drive transformative social impact through AI.
Our non-profit podcast sharing insights from innovators and inspiring new approaches to global challenges.
Making grants to Social Impact AI organizations
A for-profit multi-stage and multi-sector Venture Fund scaling AI-based solutions worldwide while measuring and improving outcomes.
Our for-profit innovation lab where AI solutions are incubated for social impact and are developed and tested by subject matter experts.
Backyards is committed to creating multi-generational impact through a comprehensive, long-term approach to social and environmental challenges.
At Backyards, we’ve built a Platform that uses storytelling, investment, and technology to spark meaningful relationships — opening doors to collaborative investment opportunities and strategic grant making. Our nonprofit arm supports mission-driven organizations that serve families and communities in need, while Backyards Capital, our for-profit fund, allows us to scale these efforts through targeted, values-aligned investments. At the heart of both is a deep belief in strengthening the health of the whole family — not just through systems change, but through stories, AI, and the power of connection.