Book overview
Since time immemorial, human beings have faced a litany of existential hurdles that individuals have struggled to overcome. The inability or unwillingness to address both the root causes and symptoms of poverty and inequality ranks among the greatest failures of societies across the world. Thankfully, a new generation of dynamic socially-conscious entrepreneurs are stepping in to fill in gaps that governments have been unable to solve.
Whether it is solving deficiencies and injustice in healthcare, education, jobs, housing, food security, or simply having access to a bank loan when it is needed, there are founders and innovators aplenty creating and implementing new solutions to these daunting challenges. The only barrier to empowering many of these entrepreneurs is the availability of funding to ensure that their ideas can get off the ground and eventually scale to serve the vast "bottom of the pyramid." This is where venture capitalists, angel investors, and other funders of early-stage businesses can and must step up to make a difference.
Imagine venture capital as a force for ending global poverty, and then dip into this practical hands-on book to see how to become part of the movement for change and make money too. Ron Levin's illuminating conversations are sure to help readers identify multiple paths to purpose-driven profits.
- Rosabeth Moss Kanter, Harvard Business School Professor and best-selling author of Think Outside the Building: How Advanced Leaders Can Change the World One Smart Innovation at a Time
Having worked tirelessly to develop the infrastructure of an emerging economy, I understand the critical role that entrepreneurs and financial professionals play in enabling innovation and growth that is inclusive for all. Ron Levin's book offers a powerful testament that venture capital can and must be deployed to support founders across the globe who are fighting every day to solve society's greatest challenges.
- Ajmal Ahmady, CFA, Former Head of Central Bank and Minister of Industry and Commerce, Afghanistan
Ron Levin's Higher Purpose Venture Capital is a groundbreaking work that redefines the role of venture capital in our world. Having worked alongside Ron for four years, I can attest to his unwavering dedication to the idea of doing well by doing good. This provocative and personal book is a must-read for anyone looking to revolutionize their investments.
- Mike Collins, Founder and CEO of Alumni Ventures
Higher Purpose Venture Capital dives into fifty business ventures that serve the "double bottom line" of profit and purpose and are backed by venture capital funding. They have helped fuel the growth of ventures that are making a difference in the lives of more and more people everyday. This collection demonstrates the kind of impact that VCs have the power to make when they choose to back founders who are solving the world's most pressing challenges.
