Indeed, Novogratz taps into investors, not donors, whose main goal combines enjoying good returns on their investments and fulfilling their social responsibilities. This is known as social returns on capital investments, a novel idea that Novogratz through Acumen continues to demonstrate in inspiring, even amazing, ways.
Novogratz tapped into her extensive experiences in a wide range of industries including banking, microfinance and conventional philanthropy in coming up with the innovative Acumen model. She believes that people in underserved communities will benefit more from community-driven and community-centered programs wherein the community itself identifies their own problems and the solutions thereto. She has then become a leading proponent for providing entrepreneurs and enterprises with the essential funding channels, skills and knowledge, and infrastructure.
Her convictions have made Acumen one of the most notable movers and shakers in the philanthropy industry. Novogratz has guided the organization toward spectacular successes in a wide range of sectors, such as water and hygiene, housing and healthcare, agriculture and agribusiness, energy and transportation, and education. Indeed, such is her success in strengthening transparency and accountability in contrast with conventional charities that Acumen's model is being adopted by many aid organizations.
Today, Novogratz continues the venture capitalist model (i.e., Acumen does not hand out aids but invests in organizations providing for life-changing products and services) in Acumen. Her success has resulted in life-changing, even life-saving, projects in diverse countries in Asia and Africa, thanks to her business savvy, social responsibility, and cultural sensitivity.
Novogratz tells her stories of success in her new brand of philanthropy via her book, The Blue Sweater.