Socially and politically responsible investing is a relatively new concept. We have compiled a list of answers to some of the questions we hear most often.

Q: Why do you include a political screen?

A: We use our political screen to find those companies that we think are truly progressive-the companies that commit to their values rather than using them as PR spin. For example, if a company touts its new hybrid technology, but then donates millions of dollars to the Republican Party at the same time, is that company truly progressive?

By using criteria to select for responsible and progressive corporate leadership we build portfolios around companies that not only conduct business in-line with our values but that also fit our sense about the way good businesses should be run.

For more information on our screening process, look through Blue Screening.

Q: What is a "No Load" fund?

A: A "No Load" fund is a type of mutual fund that does not charge a sales commission (or load fee) when an investor buys shares of the fund. Other fees and expenses do apply to an investment in "no-load" funds. All of our fees are described in our prospectus.

Q: What is the minimum investment in The Blue Fund?

A: Socially - and politically - responsible investing is for everyone, whether you're investing $5,000 or $1,000,000. At The Blue Fund, our minimum investment is $5,000 to open a non-retirement account or $2,500 for an IRA account.

Q: How can I invest in The Blue Fund?

A: Our ticker symbol is BLUFX. The fund is available through many of the large brokerages including Fidelity, Charles Schwab, E*TRADE, and Scottrade. Invest directly in the funds by filling out an application.

Q: What is shareholder advocacy?

A: Shareholder advocacy is another way of creating change within corporations. Here's how it works: A mutual fund will buy shares in a company it believes needs to make changes to improve its corporate accountability. As a shareholder, the fund then has voting rights and can influence the decisions made by the Board of Directors. The Blue Fund engages in shareholder advocacy, working to promote transparency in corporate political giving.