Acumen

Acumen invests in entrepreneurs and help them build a more inclusive world.

Acumen is a global collective of entrepreneurs, investors, philanthropists, and social innovators dedicated to breaking the cycle of poverty. They operate in markets where capital can transform the lives of people left behind by business as usual.

Since 2021, Acumen has focused on tackling the toughest poverty-related challenges by investing capital in smart solutions and innovative entrepreneurs who are building a more equitable and sustainable world. As of 2023, Acumen has invested $260 million into 215 companies, impacting 648 million lives.

Acumen invests patient capital in sectors such as agriculture, education, energy, healthcare, and workforce solutions.

Latest news and articles

Call for proposals for innovations across the Global South now open

We are launching an Innovation Challenge call to support bold, locally led solutions that strengthen resilience, protect ecosystems, and create sustainable opportunities for communities.

Protecting shea trees: Securing women’s livelihoods

Learn how protecting shea trees sustains livelihoods, strengthens rights, and empowers women

Advancing women’s rights to strengthen shea enterprises

In northern Ghana, digital mapping and access to finance are helping women shea producers like Adisah Zakaria turn invisible work into recognised assets, unlocking income, efficiency, and opportunity.

Bridging the gap: Scaling climate-resilient agriculture

Bridge funding helps transform RAIN innovations into scalable solutions that drive resilience and sustainable growth

Protecting the shea tree: Securing women’s futures

Empowering women through shea tree mapping for resilient futures