How Startups Can Respond to Crises and Ongoing Needs

In the Wake of Turkiye & Syria’s Devastating Earthquake

In response to the recent devastating earthquakes that hit Turkiye and Syria, I know of many people who made financial contributions and volunteered their time to help the people who have been impacted. You also see nonprofits and big companies commit to large sums of money. It is always inspiring to me.. in the darkest of moments, sincere, generous folks come through.

Then, I was wondering about founders of early-stage startups, who don’t have a lot of means or extra time…what can they do in times of need? I believe that a motivation for many entrepreneurs is to be able to support important causes and respond to crises, but how can you help when you’re just starting out?

Here Is What Worked for Me

Get in the habit of giving from early on in your career.. even when finances are tough. It could be that you skip that latte one day :), and donate $5 to a cause you cherish. A nominal sum can sometimes make a big difference, particularly outside of the US and other developed economies.

If you’re in a position to contribute financially,  charitable organizations needing other types of help abound. Find a nonprofit and seek opportunities to help in areas you have expertise in.. even if it’s an hour a month initially. Many nonprofits have little to no budget for professional services consulting — an hour or two from you could make a critical difference (and provide you with an additional reference for your new business).

You can then nurture this concept of giving back and offer more as you get more established, and include social responsibility programs as part of your new company’s culture.

No matter what our minds tell us, the world doesn’t revolve around us! Many people, probably not too far from where we live, or far away across 2 or 3 ponds, could benefit significantly by small sacrifices we made here. Go out and support a great cause, even if only in small ways for now!