In episode 209 of the Disruptors for Good podcast, I speak with Brett Hagler, CEO and Co-founder, of New Story Homes, on using philanthropy and market-based solutions to solve the global housing crisis.

The global housing crisis is a staggering issue, affecting 1.6 billion people who live without adequate housing. This crisis stifles the potential of millions of families, particularly women and children, across the globe.New Story Homes, a nonprofit organization, has set out to tackle this problem through a unique blend of philanthropy and market-based solutions.

By integrating innovative technology with community-focused strategies, New Story Homes is revolutionizing the path to homeownership for vulnerable families.

Takeaways

• New Story's journey began with a mission to help vulnerable families access life-changing housing, leading to a decade-long evolution of its strategy and model.
• The transition to a market-based solution involved challenges, resistance, and a two-year metamorphosis, resulting in a hybrid model that combines philanthropy with profitable financing and lending.
• The future of New Story involves executing its model to attract large pools of capital, focusing on creating a product that customers love, and building a track record for accessing significant funding.
• The conversation highlights the potential of market-based solutions in the nonprofit sector and the importance of addressing important social problems through innovative approaches.

Sound Bites

"I think you learn by doing."
"I would love to try to help as many people as possible have life-changing housing."

Empowering Through Land Ownership

At the heart of New Story Homes' mission is the concept of land ownership. In many parts of Latin America, securing land is the first critical step towards economic stability and homeownership. New Story Homes helps families purchase land, build creditworthiness, and unlock home financing. This approach shifts families from being mere beneficiaries of charity to active participants in their journey out of poverty.

By developing and selling land equipped with essential municipal utilities—water, sewage, electricity, and roads—at affordable monthly rates, New Story Homes ensures that these properties are not only accessible but also sustainable and integrated into the local urban context.

Innovative Housing Solutions

One of the standout innovations of New Story Homes is the use of 3D printing technology to build homes quickly and cost-effectively.

This method significantly reduces construction time and expenses compared to traditional building techniques, making it possible to provide immediate relief to families in need.

Beyond construction, New Story Homes focuses on the entire community-building process, developing housing products that meet the unique demands of local regions.

Families can use their land as collateral to secure first-time home financing, allowing them to either purchase one of New Story's housing prototypes or self-build the home that best suits their needs.

The Role of Philanthropy and Impact Investments

New Story Homes recognizes that addressing the housing crisis requires a multifaceted approach. Philanthropy plays a crucial role in funding the initial stages of projects, allowing the organization to acquire land and develop infrastructure.

However, to achieve scalable impact, New Story Homes pairs philanthropic funds with impact investments.

This blend enables the organization to extend its reach further down the market, serving families who are often excluded from traditional housing solutions.

By focusing on sustainable, market-based solutions, New Story Homes ensures that its initiatives not only provide immediate relief but also foster long-term economic growth and stability in the communities it serves.

Success and Future Innovations

The success of New Story Homes can be seen in the thousands of families who now live in safe, affordable homes in countries like Haiti, El Salvador, Mexico, and Bolivia. Each project is a testament to the power of innovation and community collaboration in solving one of the world's most pressing social issues.

Looking ahead, New Story Homes continues to push the boundaries of what's possible in affordable housing, exploring new technologies and strategies to further reduce costs and increase the speed of home construction.

In episode 208 of the Disruptors for Good podcast, we speak with Julie Colombino-Billingham, founder of Deux Mains, on transforming lives in Haiti through business and employment.

In the aftermath of the devastating 2010 earthquake in Haiti, a country torn apart by natural disaster found a beacon of hope and renewal in Deux Mains. Founded by Julie Colombino-Billingham, Deux Mains isn’t just a fashion brand; it’s a testament to resilience, empowerment, and sustainable innovation.

Julie’s journey began in the chaos and heartbreak of post-earthquake Haiti, where she witnessed first-hand the dire need for dignified employment. This profound experience laid the foundation for Deux Mains, driven by the desire to provide more than just aid—Julie sought to offer sustainable opportunities that empower the local community.

Crafting Fashion with Purpose

At Deux Mains, every piece of fashion carries a deeper meaning. The brand is rooted in the belief that thoughtful design and ethical practices can transform the fashion industry. By choosing Deux Mains, consumers support a business model that ensures safe working conditions, livable wages, health insurance, and educational opportunities for Haitian workers.

The brand’s operations are based in a solar-powered, women-owned factory, emphasizing a commitment to environmental stewardship and social responsibility. From sandals to handbags, each item is a blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern design, made from responsibly sourced materials and created with an artisanal touch.

Sustainability at Its Core

“Deux Mains” translates to “two hands” in French, symbolizing the handcrafted nature of their products. The brand champions a circular economy, utilizing found or made materials to minimize waste and environmental impact. Their products are not only designed to last but also to merge seamlessly as staple pieces in any wardrobe, embodying timeless elegance and durability.

A Vision of Sustainable Luxury

Julie Colombino-Billingham, the visionary behind Deux Mains, brings a diverse background from her experiences as a professional dancer and aerialist to her academic pursuits in international disaster management. Her unique perspective has shaped the brand into a luxury fashion house that stands for more than just aesthetics—it stands for change.

Under her leadership, Deux Mains has evolved into a hub for job creation, where artisans are not only employed but celebrated for their skills. The brand extends beyond the borders of Haiti, sharing the island’s exceptional craftsmanship with the global market.

Joining Hands with Deux Mains

Deux Mains invites consumers to be part of a movement that values fair trade, ethical practices, and community engagement. Each purchase not only enhances a wardrobe but also contributes to the ongoing story of resilience and empowerment in Haiti.

As Julie often reflects on her initial encounters in Haiti, where a woman told her, “I don’t need water, I need a job,” it’s clear that Deux Mains is more than just a brand—it’s a lifeline, a form of support, and a step towards a brighter future for the Haitian community.

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In episode 207 of the Disruptors for Good podcast, I speak with Hardika Shah, Founder and CEO of Kinara Capital, on transforming lives and local economies, by providing access to capital for small business entrepreneurs.

Armed with a mission to empower the 70 million small business entrepreneurs in the country, Kinara has embarked on a journey to provide fast and flexible collateral-free business loans. Leveraging cutting-edge technology and a dedication to customer service, Kinara Capital revolutionized the lending landscape with its digital processes and doorstep assistance.

Over the years, the company has disbursed more than $300 million to over 40,000 small business entrepreneurs, ushering thousands into the realm of financial inclusion. This transformative journey has not only created jobs and spurred economic growth but has also generated over $100 million in incremental income for MSMEs across India.

Before embarking on her entrepreneurial journey, Hardika honed her skills as a management consultant, working on projects for global companies across the USA, Europe, and Asia-Pacific. Her passion for social impact led her to devote nearly a decade to mentoring emerging social entrepreneurs.

At Kinara Capital, the mission is clear: to transform lives, livelihoods, and local economies by providing access to capital for every entrepreneur. With a vision of a financially inclusive world, Hardika and her team continue to pave the way for a brighter future for small business entrepreneurs across India.

I hope you enjoy the conversation, until next time, stay humble and stay creative.

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