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Jacqueline Novogratz

Jacqueline Novogratz


Founder & CEO


New York, New York, United States



Professional Overview
Jacqueline Novogratz is the Founder and CEO of Acumen, a globally recognized nonprofit venture capital fund that uses entrepreneurial approaches to tackle global poverty. With over 20 years of experience in impact investing and social enterprise, Novogratz is a respected thought leader in the field of sustainable development and inclusive capitalism.

Experience Summary

Current Role
As the Founder and CEO of Acumen, Novogratz oversees the organization's vision, strategy, and operations. Under her leadership, Acumen has invested over $100 million to deliver affordable services like healthcare, water, housing, and energy to millions of low-income individuals around the world. Novogratz has been instrumental in pioneering the use of patient capital to fund social enterprises, and her work has influenced the growth of the impact investing sector globally.

Career Progression
Prior to founding Acumen, Novogratz had a diverse career, including roles as a microfinance pioneer at the Rockefeller Foundation and as an entrepreneur in Rwanda. She has also served on the advisory boards of the World Economic Forum and the Clinton Global Initiative, and has been recognized as a Young Global Leader by the World Economic Forum.

Academic Background
Novogratz holds a BA in Economics and International Relations from the University of Virginia and an MBA from the Stanford Graduate School of Business. She has been awarded numerous honorary degrees and has been recognized as a Skoll Fellow, an Ashoka Fellow, and a member of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences.

Areas of Expertise
  • Impact investing and social enterprise

  • Sustainable development and inclusive capitalism

  • Nonprofit management and strategic leadership

  • Microfinance and financial inclusion

  • International development and global health


Professional Impact
Novogratz's work has been recognized with numerous awards, including the Arthur Ross Award for Distinguished Contributions to International Affairs, the Clinton Global Citizen Award, and the Forbes 100 Greatest Living Business Minds. She is also the author of the best-selling memoir "The Blue Sweater" and has been featured in various media outlets, including TED Talks, the Aspen Ideas Festival, and the World Economic Forum.

Conclusion
Jacqueline Novogratz is a visionary leader whose work has had a profound impact on the global social impact landscape. Through her innovative approach to tackling poverty and her unwavering commitment to creating sustainable, scalable solutions, she has positioned Acumen as a leading force in the impact investing and social enterprise sectors. Novogratz's expertise, leadership, and dedication to driving positive change continue to inspire and influence professionals and organizations worldwide.