Jacqueline Novogratz

Jacqueline Novogratz is a leading American social entrepreneur and author, recognized for her work in combating poverty and promoting inclusive economic development. She holds a degree in International Economics and Foreign Affairs from the University of Virginia and an MBA from Stanford Business School.

Novogratz began her career in banking, working for Chase Manhattan Bank in developing countries. Her experience in the financial sector led her to found Acumen in 2001, a nonprofit organization that uses an impact investing approach to address poverty. Acumen invests in innovative companies, leaders and solutions that deliver critical services to the world's poorest communities. Under his leadership, Acumen has invested more than $135 million in social enterprises in Africa, Latin America, South Asia and the United States, impacting the lives of millions of people.

In addition to her work with Acumen, Novogratz is the author of the acclaimed book "The Blue Sweater: Bridging the Gap Between Rich and Poor in an Interconnected World," where she recounts her experiences and lessons learned in her career dedicated to social and economic development. Her focus on creating sustainable and dignified solutions for the poor has been widely recognized.

Novogratz has received numerous awards and honors, including the World Economic Forum's Global Leader of Tomorrow award and has been named among the 100 most influential people in business ethics by Ethisphere. She is a frequent speaker at global conferences and has inspired a generation of social entrepreneurs with her vision of a more equitable world.

Jacqueline Novogratz continues to be an influential figure in the field of social development, dedicating her life to building a more just and sustainable future for all.