By: Georgette Virgo 

Impact Ventures International (IVI) is redefining business consulting by proving that profit and purpose are not opposing elements but complementary factors for success. As a firm dedicated to helping companies scale and thrive, IVI goes beyond traditional consulting by embedding social responsibility into its strategies. It uplifts communities, supports nonprofits, and fosters sustainable growth, demonstrating that business success can drive meaningful change.

“At IVI, we believe running a business is about more than profit, it’s about creating lasting, positive change. If we’re in a position to help those in need while building impactful businesses for our clients, why wouldn’t we?” says Joshua Kirshbaum, co-founder of Impact Ventures International.

Prioritizing Purpose in Business Operations

IVI integrates purpose into its consulting model by prioritizing partnerships with nonprofits and mission-driven organizations. Kelly Grandmaison, co-founder of Impact Ventures International, explains that they hire these entities to provide services whenever possible, even when for-profit alternatives are available. The firm makes sure that these organizations can continue impacting their communities while benefiting from the firm’s resources by paying full price for their work.

“We’re not just hiring nonprofits because it looks good on paper,” Grandmaison adds. “We do it because we believe in their missions and want to support their incredible work.”

Impact Ventures International also invests heavily in its team by paying above-market wages and building an environment where employees can thrive. Recognizing that their team is the backbone of everything they do, they see to it that they are well-compensated and supported to continue doing work that matters.

IVI’s Commitment to Giving Back

IVI’s social responsibility extends beyond operational decisions and is also included in its financial model. The firm pledges 20% of its annual revenue to causes that uplift others, a commitment rooted in business strategy and moral conviction. This significant contribution supports nonprofits and community initiatives that align with IVI’s values.

Kirshbaum explains, “Donating 20% of our revenue isn’t just a business choice, it’s a moral one. Throughout my career, whether in entertainment, finance, or nonprofit leadership, my focus has always been on helping others succeed.”

Meanwhile, Grandmaison’s outlook on purpose-driven consulting was inspired by her grandfather, who she describes as always focused on giving back and supporting others.

She mentions, “Whether it was the National Alzheimer’s Association, supporting veteran organizations, monthly donations to the American Heart Association, or donating to his church, he always made it a point to give back to others without questioning it. When he passed away, it became a big point for me to certify that his legacy continued.”

This dual focus on profit and purpose reflects broader trends in business today.  A Harvard Business School study shows that consumers prefer companies with strong CSR practices. Additionally, investors consider a business’s environmental and social efforts when making investment decisions, which are critical for long-term success. 

Building Sustainable Businesses

Impact Ventures International’s commitment to merging profit with purpose is exemplified by its flagship service, VentureMax360. This program is a comprehensive solution for scaling businesses, incorporating socially conscious frameworks, operational improvements, and financial optimization.

Through the program’s comprehensive stages, participants learn more about business operations and find opportunities to use their resources and networks to participate in socially responsible initiatives.

For instance, one of Impact Ventures International’s clients had scaled their business significantly throughout Southern California and expanded into two additional states. According to Kirshbaum, as part of their growth, they supported individuals struggling with active addiction by providing housing and connecting them with recovery programs. Once those individuals completed the program, they offered job training and hired them within their for-profit business to help them recover.

“We believe that every business has the potential to drive systemic change, and our role is to help them harness that potential. We want our clients to walk away knowing they’ve achieved financial growth while contributing positively to their communities.”

The Best of Both Worlds

Grandmaison and Kirshbaum acknowledge that oftentimes, businesses are torn between making a profit and contributing positively to society. This is why part of Impact Ventures International’s mission is to teach its clients that they don’t have to sacrifice profit for purpose and vice versa.

Grandmaison adds, “Many feel stretched thin when deeply invested in their business and desire to give back. We love grounding them and creating a clear system where it’s never about choosing one over the other but driving both forward sustainably.”

Impact Ventures International emphasizes that its role as a consultant is not just about helping businesses hit financial targets. It is about challenging them to think beyond the numbers and showing them how being socially responsible is a smart and powerful way to do business. All these contribute to businesses’ success today and prepare them for more significant opportunities in the future.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice, a recommendation, or an offer to buy or sell any securities. Consult a qualified financial advisor for advice specific to your situation.