Establish a Development Fund

"I believe that Silicon Valley is truly a place of excellence and the impact of this tiny community on the world is completely disproportionate to its size. We are the undisputed leaders of technological change. But with our abundance of talent and resources, we also have the opportunity to be the pioneers of social change and, ultimately, this may be our greatest contribution."

Jeff Skoll, businessman, founder, The Skoll Foundation


A few years ago, a pioneering company decided to start a capital fund that would help new companies, small firms and disadvantaged companies get into business and grow.

The thought was that these new companies eventually would become dedicated contractors and suppliers to the big company—a sure way to help them grow large enough to compete with others. It is a model that has worked well in several industries like auto dealerships and fast-food franchising.

Although this is not really philanthropy, more companies should consider using this approach as a way to make a meaningful contribution to society. A development fund can be established to support or advance any number of charitable and philanthropic endeavors, in addition to those with a commercial basis.

The societal impact of financing a business and subsequently providing a ready source of contract opportunities cannot be understated; it promotes economic development, growth and employment for new entrants and at the same time increases the tax revenue base of local cities and counties.

These are all good things.

(c) Adonis E. Hoffman, 2008.

Lead the Way in Philanthropy

"There is a natural law, a Divine law that obliges you and me to relieve the suffering, the distressed and the destitute. . . The practice of charity will bind us... will bind all men in one great brotherhood."

Conrad Hilton, founder, Hilton Hotels


Corporate philanthropy is a good thing and there can never be too much of a good thing. Today, we find a handful of companies at the top of the chart in corporate philanthropy, while many more companies barely register.

The wonderful thing about philanthropy is that it has a multiplier effect. When your company makes a contribution to a worthy organization, event or program, it strengthens the capacity of the recipient to deliver the benefits it promises.

But philanthropy is not without some controversy. There are some who believe that the role of business is to provide better goods and services at better prices so that consumers can have better lives. Philanthropy, they assert, is better left to foundations and individuals rather than to corporations.

I disagree. There are many ways to give to charity—money, in-kind donations, product giveaways, volunteerism, loaning executives and other opportunities to make a difference. As a business leader, you can develop a wide range of strategies that will position your company in the forefront of corporate philanthropy. Your reputation will be enhanced.

(c) Adonis E. Hoffman, 2008.

Support Local Communities

"Many business leaders are asking fundamental questions about what business they’re in, why they are doing it and how it can be used as a means of healing human and natural communities."

Amory Lovins, Chairman, Rocky Mountain Institute



In many communities throughout the United States, and indeed throughout the world, corporations have the largest single footprint and impact. Aside from providing jobs for the citizens and tax revenue for the city and state, corporations also help local communities to develop and shape their identities.

With that in mind, it is a good thing for your company to actively support the local communities in which it operates. Support in this regard means that you give of your money, your people and your time. So many companies believe their commitment stops at the first level—giving money. But your good citizenship depends on how engaged your company is in local affairs.

Do you support the local soccer team(s)? Are your employees volunteering at the local schools, community centers and civic groups? Have you taken the time to get to know the local leaders, movers and shakers in the community?

Keep in mind you are much more than a source of jobs—you are an institutional part of the communities in which you operate, and the people of those communities will look to you for more than money.

(c) Adonis E. Hoffman, 2008.