By Tom Eggert, Founding Director, WorldWise Microfinance
Earlier in July, I was selected as the Nonprofit Leader of the Year by InBusiness Magazine. Of course, I was honored, but this recognition reflects the hundreds of people who believed in the idea that small, human-centered interventions can lead to profound economic change. The recognition I received only came about because of our donors, our volunteers, our partners across six countries, and most importantly, the individuals and families whose lives have been touched by WorldWise Microfinance.
When we started this journey, WorldWise was little more than an idea, seeded with $3,000 and a lot of hope. Today, that seed has grown into an organization with over $500,000 in economic impact, working in communities from Uganda to the Philippines. And we’ve done this with an all-volunteer board, no paid staff, and an unwavering belief that if a small amount of funding was provided, then individuals, through hard work, will lift their families out of poverty.
I’ve always believed that capitalism can be values based. I taught the first class at UW Madison on sustainability, and focused on the role that business was playing. Access to capital enables change, and if incentives are provided for that capital to work for the good of the community, change can bring hope and opportunity. It’s no different in microfinance. At its best, microfinance is not about transactions. It’s about dignity. It’s about offering tools, not answers, and trusting people to build the futures they envision for themselves.
This award, then, feels like a recognition not only of what we’ve built at WorldWise Microfinance, but also of a broader philosophy: that leadership begins with listening. Opportunity to make a difference is all around us. The need for individuals to step up and make a difference has never been greater.
I’m grateful to InBusiness Magazine for this honor. But more than anything, I’m grateful to be part of a movement that believes in people, in potential, and in the power of small things done with great care.
