As we reflect on the past year, the Small Giants Community continues to thrive as a beacon for purpose-driven leaders who prioritize values and people with aligned business practices, culture, community impact, and personal growth. We’ve seen our Community come to life in beautiful ways - connecting, sharing, learning, and growing together. We’ve welcomed new voices and strengthened bonds that unite us as we strive to live out our purpose, proving that businesses can be a force for good in the world.
This past year has also presented us with an opportunity for reflection and transition. It was fitting that our 2024 Summit focused on the theme of Enduring, not only in light of ongoing changes in the economy and our local and global communities, but in our own lasting impact to our mission and values. Our Small Giants Team experienced change and a transition in leadership this year. Yet, our purpose remains stronger than ever thanks to the enduring legacy of instrumental leaders like Hamsa Daher, Paul Spiegelman, and Bo Burlingham, and this allows us to embark on a new chapter of continuing to support and connect purpose-driven and heart-led leaders.
With this year coming to a close, we’re beyond grateful for our Small Giants Community – the leaders and companies that share in our optimism and vision to live into purpose and values with heart!
A Snapshot of Our Community
Earlier this year, we shared a survey with Small Giants members to better understand who we are as a Community. Here’s a recap of what we learned about the purpose-driven leaders and companies that make up the Small Giants Community.- One-third of our Community consists of Founders/CEOs, while two-thirds are Next Gen leaders, or rising leaders within an organization.
- The career tenure of most Small Giants leaders are mid- to senior experience levels.
- Most of our companies operate in a hybrid (both remote and in-office) structure.
- A majority of Small Giants companies have less than 50 employees.
- Legacy matters and most of our companies have been around the block for a decade or two… nearly 65% have been in business for over 21 years.
- Nearly 55% of Small Giants companies use some form of operating structure or framework - EOS is the most popular system, followed by some form of open-book management.
- 74% of Small Giants leaders are happy at work, compared to the national average of 65% according to Gallup.
Looking Ahead
- “We’re getting ready for one of our favorite events of the year - our annual Summit is coming back to Detroit next spring! The theme Connections will be a great one to link ideas, purpose, and people. Plus, we’ve listened to the Community’s feedback, so attendees can expect to experience some new and refreshing changes! -Bridget Bateman, Community Coordinator
- “Our 2025 Leadership Academy Class is kicking off in January, and we have some incredible leaders in the cohort! We’ve added new elements to enhance the program, launched a new online community platform, and are really focused on bringing the learnings back to the team. With the exceptional facilitators, mentors, and alumni support, it’s going to be an epic year!” -Katie Sowa, Co-Executive Director
- “Next year, we’re elevating more ways for our Small Giants Community members to connect! Look out for more Community Connections virtual events to meet, share, and work alongside purpose-driven leaders. We’re also launching a new women’s peer group alongside our favorite Small Giants ways to learn and grow.” -Heidi Baumgart, Co-Executive Director
Our Ask to You
Our purpose is to identify, connect, and develop purpose-driven business leaders; and everything our team does is dedicated to living out our Small Giants values. As an organization, we operate as a designated L3C, a hybrid between a for-profit and a nonprofit entity that prioritizes mission and social purpose. As a Community, it takes a village to help our small but mighty team bring our purpose to life. We rely on the generous support of leaders and companies to help us bridge the financial and operational gap with our annual goal of simply aiming to break even.
We ask you to consider supporting the Community through sponsorship support. From sponsoring our Growing with Purpose podcast to the annual Summit, any contribution goes a long way. The work we do wouldn’t be possible without the support of fellow Community members like yourself.
Thank you for being a part of our Small Giants Community in all ways, both large and small. We look forward to having you join us for a new year, new adventures, and more Small Giants love!