Acumen is a non-profit organization that invests in companies and leaders tackling poverty and changing the way the world tackles poverty. Their work focuses on three key areas: investing patient capital into early-stage companies, providing leadership development through their Fellows program, and advancing the field of impact investing through research and thought leadership.
Founded in 2001 by Jacqueline Novogratz with a mission to combat poverty through entrepreneurial approaches
Launched the Acumen Fund in 2002 to invest in companies serving low-income communities in developing countries
Started the Global Fellows program in 2006 to provide leadership development for social entrepreneurs
Expanded their focus to impact investing globally and launched the Lean Data program in 2014 to measure social impact and improve decision-making
A non-profit organization that offers impact investment opportunities through donor-advised funds and customized investment portfolios
A non-profit organization that provides financing and training to agricultural businesses serving smallholder farmers
A non-profit organization that invests in and provides support for microfinance institutions and other financial service providers
Acumen provides patient capital – long-term, flexible financing – to early-stage companies operating in low-income communities in developing countries.
A leadership development program that selects and trains social entrepreneurs from around the world to develop their skills and networks.
Acumen conducts research and publishes reports on impact investing and poverty alleviation in order to advance the field.
Patient capital is long-term, flexible financing that is designed to support early-stage companies that may not yet have a proven track record or be profitable. This type of investment allows companies to focus on long-term growth and impact rather than short-term financial results.
The Acumen Fellows program is a one-year, fully-funded fellowship that provides leadership development training, mentorship, and networking opportunities for social entrepreneurs from around the world. Fellows participate in online courses, in-person seminars, and engage with a global community of changemakers.
Acumen invests in companies in a range of sectors, including agriculture, energy, healthcare, and education. The companies must be based in or primarily serve low-income communities in developing countries, and demonstrate a commitment to social impact.
Impact investing is an approach to investing that aims to generate both financial returns and positive social or environmental impact. This type of investment seeks to address social or environmental challenges while still providing a financial return to investors.
Acumen is funded through a combination of donations from individuals, corporations, and foundations, as well as returns on their investments. They also receive support from government agencies and international organizations.