The Transformative Role of Enterprise
— by Reuben Coulter
We believe that Faith Driven Entrepreneurs and Investors can create transformation in four main ways; Wealth and Job Creation, Innovation, Evangelism, and Discipleship and Cultural Transformation. The calling and gifts of the business leader are complementary to those of those of the minister and where possible should work in partnership together.
1. Business can create jobs and wealth
Two thirds of the world’s population live in poverty. Over 600 million new jobs will need to be created globally by 2030. Rapidly growing populations means that youth are often unemployed and without a future. Small & medium enterprises (with annual turnover from $100,000 to $50m) create more than 90% of formal employment opportunities in frontier and emerging markets, making them an essential part of every economy and an important lever for social and environmental impact.
2. Business can provide innovative solutions to the world’s needs
Yesterday’s solutions can’t solve today's problems. Innovation and technology can help tackle complex problems and enable nations to leapfrog forward. Entrepreneurs are the forward-thinkers the global economy needs. They look at technology as an opportunity to move forward in leaps and bounds.. In doing so, this type of innovation can create new markets and generate inclusive prosperity.
3. Business can reach the unreached
32% of the world claim to be Christians, but over 7,000 people groups have never heard of Christ. Evangelism is restricted in many countries and Christians are often persecuted. Other faiths like Islam are growing rapidly especially among youth. Faith-driven entrepreneurs can go to places where traditional missionaries can’t, and they can build meaningful relationships with and witness to their employees, customers, and suppliers.
4. Business can disciple leaders and transform culture
Too often people have a ‘Sunday only’ faith which is divorced from the daily reality of making ends meet. This disjointed faith turns a blind eye to corruption or promotes a prosperity gospel which focuses on personal enrichment. Faith-Driven Businesses can nurture their employees in their faith and disciple them to live Christ-like lives. In turn, these businesses and leaders will affect change in every aspect of society.
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[ Photo by Annie Spratt on Unsplash ]
We are in the process of a tectonic transformation in the way we work and live – let’s rise to the challenge of using generative AI to speak and create life, rather than standing on the sidelines.