Our Operational Impact Framework
The Gainful Jobs Approach™ is a structured impact framework spanning the investment lifecycle, designed to identify and implement workplace initiatives that create and sustain high-quality jobs.
HCAP Partners is considered among the first private equity firms to develop and successfully implement a quality jobs strategy across its portfolio companies. The framework uses a robust quantitative measurement system to assess job quality standards and improvements over time. HCAP works alongside portfolio company management to apply the Gainful Jobs Approach™, which defines a quality job as one that provides employees with at least four of six key attributes¹ that promote economic opportunity, workplace belonging, and health & wellness. Developed in collaboration with our LPs and industry thought leaders, the framework establishes clear standards for job quality and long-term workforce sustainability.
¹ See the table in Appendix A for detailed criteria on each of the six attributes of the Gainful Jobs Approach™.
The Six Attributes of the Gainful Jobs Approach™
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Broad-Based Participation
Expanding employee wealth creation through stock options, bonuses, profit-sharing, and retirement savings plans.
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Opportunities for Advancement
Providing career mobility through training, mentorship, and clear promotion pathways.
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Sustainable Livelihood
Ensuring living wages and compensation structures that support financial security.
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Belonging
Fostering inclusive policies and practices that create a supportive and fair work environment.
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Paid Time Off
Offering employees adequate time for illness, family needs, and personal well-being.
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Wellness Initiatives
Providing access to healthcare, wellness programs, and other physical and mental health benefits.
Key Aspects of the Gainful Jobs Approach™
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An Industry-Leading Standard
The Gainful Jobs Approach™ is one of the first structured quality jobs frameworks successfully implemented across a private equity portfolio, setting an example for how a focus on workers can drive economic returns.
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Active Portfolio Engagement Across Investment Lifecycle
HCAP collaborates with company management to implement customized job quality initiatives. The Gainful Jobs Approach™ is integrated throughout the investment lifecycle, with active engagement from due diligence through exit.
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Goal Setting
HCAP and company management develop a Strategic Roadmap that documents company-specific job quality goals to be achieved over 3-5 years. This Strategic Roadmap is a condition of investment close and integrated in company value creation plans.
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Robust Impact Measurement
The Gainful Jobs Approach™ uses a quantitative impact measurement system with online company dashboards to track job quality standards and measure improvements across portfolio companies.
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Employee Carrot Agreements
Impact-aligned carrot agreements reward portfolio company employees financially at exit for their contributions.
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A Model for Scaling Business Success
By strengthening job quality, the Gainful Jobs Approach™ helps companies enhance retention, increase productivity, and drive long-term growth.