By: Susan Rockwell
Beyond Charity – A Strategic Approach to Philanthropy
For many philanthropists, giving is a straightforward act of providing financial aid. But for Dr. Armin Oskouei, founder of the Armin Oskouei Foundation, philanthropy is more complex. It is about creating sustainable systems that allow individuals and communities to thrive independently. Dr. Oskouei’s success as a hedge fund manager and serial entrepreneur has greatly influenced his approach to giving back, allowing him to merge the worlds of business strategy and philanthropy seamlessly.
An Entrepreneur’s Vision for Philanthropy
Dr. Oskouei has built his career as a strategic investor, working in hedge fund management and other entrepreneurial ventures. This deep understanding of markets and investments has shaped the way he approaches philanthropy, ensuring that every initiative is treated as an investment in the future.
“We don’t just give money; we invest in people and communities, helping them build something sustainable,” Dr. Oskouei explains. His foundation’s projects are designed to empower individuals with the skills and resources they need to succeed long after the initial financial support is provided.
Sustainability Through Empowerment: Investing in People and Communities
One of the core missions of the Armin Oskouei Foundation is to empower communities to become self-sufficient. The foundation partners with organizations across the globe that focus on education, healthcare, and economic empowerment, providing not just financial support but also strategic guidance to ensure long-term growth.
A prime example of this is the foundation’s collaboration with Big Dog Ranch Rescue, where the focus is not only on rescuing animals but also on creating sustainable systems to ensure long-term success. “We want to build programs that can stand on their own, without needing ongoing support,” Dr. Oskouei says.
Philanthropy Meets Strategic Thinking
Dr. Oskouei applies the same principles to philanthropy as he does in business. By using strategic investment practices, the foundation ensures that its contributions are impactful and long-lasting. Whether funding education programs in underserved communities or supporting healthcare initiatives, the foundation carefully analyzes each project to ensure it has the potential for long-term sustainability.
“Our approach is to think strategically about how we can make the biggest difference,” says Dr. Oskouei. “That means ensuring that every project we support has a plan for growth and self-sufficiency.”
A Focus on Health, Education, and Economic Growth
The foundation places a strong emphasis on healthcare, education, and economic empowerment, recognizing that these are the building blocks for a prosperous and independent society. Through partnerships with organizations like the American Red Cross and the Nelson Mandela Foundation, the Armin Oskouei Foundation is able to provide critical support while fostering long-term growth.
By focusing on strategic investments that empower individuals and communities, the foundation aligns its philanthropic efforts with the principles that have driven Dr. Oskouei’s success in the business world. “We’re creating more than just temporary solutions,” he explains. “We’re building lasting systems that will continue to benefit communities for years to come.”
Transforming Philanthropy Through Strategy
Dr. Armin Oskouei’s approach to philanthropy is transforming the way we think about giving. By applying the principles of strategic investment and focusing on self-sufficiency, the Armin Oskouei Foundation is empowering communities to grow and thrive long after the initial support is provided. His entrepreneurial mindset, honed through years of success in hedge fund management, has enabled him to create a new model for philanthropy—one that is as focused on long-term results as it is on immediate impact.
Published by: Holy Minoza