Glocal Transformative Impact: An Innovative Social Enterprise Framework

I believe there is a growing need for transformative business models that are scalable, have measureable results, and are rooted in strong biblical foundations so that they can be embraced by the faith community, while at the same time integrated into larger community development and economic development strategies. To date, very few models have been specifically designed to simultaneously address the following.

1)   the social, spiritual, environmental, and economic needs of communities in a sustainable way

2)   the Christian mandate to stand in solidarity with the poor both locally and globally

3)   show results and learning that are measurable and scalable

The purpose of this research is to explore a transformative glocal (that is ability to think globally while still acting locally) business framework that specifically provides North Americans an opportunity to join individuals and communities globally, while also engaging their business skills, networks, and resources to create change in their own cities.

This particular framework being discovered seeks to tear down the false dichotomy of secular and sacred with the hope that enterprises will continue to actively redeem the true purpose of business. The goal is that people around the world will be able to increasingly operate their organizations and businesses for the common good of their communities, to have institutions helping individuals grow and build wealth, implementing new innovations, and developing effective global missional communities.

Finally, this project addresses transformation in both the person and the places in which they reside. I believe that transformation is a process as opposed to a destination, meaning that innovative interventions need to be initiated in an iterative process. Even if the models are not perfect, there must be some risk taken. In the following pages of this project ten principles will be described that I have developed over the past decade and these principles will begin a deep change process in people, places, and organizations. By no means are these principles all-encompassing, but in a unique manner they address and weave together elements of glocal, social entrepreneurship, stewardship, faith, and global city transformation.