A mission-based business could be considered the ultimate mix of redemptive entrepreneurship. Using a creative, innovative idea fully for missionary purposes. Cards from Africa is one of these organizations that strives to use God’s purposes for each person and demonstrate his love for everyone. The website mentions they began because they “believe that God has a heart for the poor and marginalized in society and that faith requires action”
The mission of Cards from Africa is to provide meaningful employment to the people in Africa while still developing life skills and focusing on growing each individual person. They share some of the testimonies of the workers and the stories are amazing. Each card maker has been orphaned due to the Rwandan genocide or because of disease. The company works to develop their employees knowledge on entrepreneurship, management, and practical business so that they can one day move on to work on their own and develop the poor Rwandan economy.
The products themselves are all handmade from discarded scraps giving each card and individualized look. They are each one unique and made from natural ingredients. The cards range from greeting cards to get well cards to everything in between. This unique mix of entrepreneurship with a mission focus is exactly what Rwanda needs and what the founder Chris Page was working for.
I’ve seen so many jewelry, bracelet, and coin purse ministries from Africa. The card-making concept is a great spin on the classic outreach fundraising. From what it looks like, these cards are super multi-functional and are a great way to support a cause as well as get something super functional. Two ways to give!
Companies like these make my heart happy. It is amazing to see how starting such a simple business can impact the lives of so many different people. I also love how their website quotes God talking about how how he has a heart for the poor. That small little quote adds so much to their purpose and can help fellow believers get on board with this company!
I think companies like this are super inspiring. As a business major it is encouraging to see that people are able to use business for good, and more importantly for God. I wish that more companies around the world would instill a similar mindset into the way they work and the reasons they work for.