7 Stories of Turning Wealth into Positive Change

We reached out to founders and business leaders to share how they’ve used their wealth to make a difference. From supporting local businesses to giving others the gift of time, here are seven inspiring experiences and the valuable lessons they offer:

1. Supporting Local Businesses

I reinvested my profits into growing my marketing agency and used my skills to support local contractors who couldn’t afford marketing services. By providing discounted or pro bono work to struggling small businesses, I helped them build a strong online presence, generate leads, and grow. The biggest takeaway was that wealth isn’t just about money; it also includes resources and expertise. Helping others succeed through what you know can have a huge impact. Giving back doesn’t always mean writing checks—sometimes offering your skills or mentorship can create lasting positive change. My advice: leverage your skills or resources in areas where you see a real need. It’s about creating opportunities for sustainable growth.
Andrew Lee Jenkins, Owner, Andrew Lee Jenkins

2. Investing in People

I once invested in a local café run by a passionate couple who were struggling to keep the doors open. They had amazing food but lacked a solid business strategy and marketing resources. I provided funds for a renovation and connected them with a marketing expert. The café became a popular spot within months. It showed me that wealth should be used as a tool for empowerment, not just for accumulation. I recommend focusing on people, not just profits—when you help others grow, the benefits come back to you in unexpected ways.
Bhavik Sarkhedi, Growth Head & CMO, Content Whale

3. Covering Medical Expenses

I used some of my savings to help a neighbor cover unexpected medical expenses, easing their immediate financial stress. The experience taught me the profound impact small acts of kindness can have. Even modest contributions can make a significant difference. I encourage others to seek out ways to support their community, whether through financial help, volunteering, or simply offering a helping hand. These small gestures can have a lasting, positive impact.
Aseem Jha, Founder, Legal Consulting Pro

4. Funding Local Art Programs

Supporting local art initiatives has been a deeply rewarding way to use my wealth for community benefit. These programs enrich the cultural landscape and bring people together, fostering creativity and connection. The positive feedback showed me how strategic investments can lead to substantial social and cultural gains.
Bradley Fry, Owner, PinProsPlus

5. Supporting Local Education

One of my most meaningful experiences was funding a scholarship program for underprivileged students in my community. Seeing the impact on young people gaining access to resources they wouldn’t have had was incredibly rewarding. The experience taught me that wealth, regardless of the amount, can create real change when used thoughtfully. My advice: start locally. Find a cause that resonates and contribute in any way you can—whether it’s time, skills, or money. The ripple effect can be more significant than you expect.
Josh Bolstad, Owner, Niche Ranker

6. Investing in Employee Well-being

When running my telecommunications company, I noticed some employees struggling with personal challenges that affected their productivity. I used my financial success to offer more than just salaries and benefits. I provided financial-literacy workshops, mental-health resources, and flexible working arrangements. This led to improved morale, engagement, and productivity. The lesson? Wealth, when used wisely, can create a ripple effect of positive outcomes. It’s not just about spending—it’s about making impactful investments. I recommend focusing on your people; when they thrive, so does your business.
Ronald Osborne, Founder, Ronald Osborne Business Coach

7. Buying Time for Others

A few years ago, I funded an initiative that gave small-business employees paid time off for personal development, creativity, or mental health. This wasn’t just about donating money; it was about giving people the time to recharge and pursue meaningful activities. I learned that time is one of the most valuable gifts you can offer. Empowering people to step back, recharge, and grow benefits both their personal and professional lives. I recommend thinking beyond traditional ways of giving—consider offering others time or opportunities they wouldn’t normally have.
Vipul Kumar, Business Manager, ScoreDoc