Thursday, October 22, 2009

Acumen: Making a Real Difference in the World

As the company’s very name would imply, Acumen is a keen insightful business attempting to change the face of poverty in a non-traditional way. The company’s philosophy, as described by Seth Godin, takes to heart the old proverb that states, “Give a man a fish and he will eat for a day. Teach a man to fish and he have food for a lifetime.”

Therefore, Acumen’s objective is to help equip individuals in third world countries with a trade and financial backing to start a small business. As Godin points out, when a tradesperson sells soap as an example, both parties are benefitted. Those who buy the soap can improve their hygiene and in live longer and healthier lives. Those who make a profit have money to continue making soap and providing a livelihood to take care of themselves and their families.

Interestingly, Godin points out that the typical way organizations have approach helping these type of people was to simply provide them with money or food every once and a while. This, of course, was only a short-term solution that had no long-term benefits. Instead, empowering individuals with a skill and financial help to start a small business has the potential to end the cycle of poverty and improve the quality of life of many individuals. This, as Godin argues, is a more impacting, meaningful way to make a difference in this world. So, as Godin asks, why not join the team at Acumen and change the face of poverty.

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