Celebrating 20 Years of Impact
From One Question to Global Impact
Twenty years ago, a question at a Stanford GSB reunion sparked an idea: what if we came together and used everything we’ve been given to change lives at scale?
That idea became Project Redwood.
Today, a global community of alumni spanning more than 40 class years is working together to combat poverty—bringing the same rigor, creativity, and accountability we apply to business to support education, job training, job creation, and entrepreneurship.
Meet some of the people behind the impact.
Explore the stories that shaped Project Redwood and are driving what comes next.
A Critical Moment in the Fight Against Global Poverty
Global poverty remains one of the world’s most urgent challenges, with millions still lacking access to education, stable income, and basic opportunity.
At the same time, proven solutions exist, and the need to scale them has never been greater. Across sectors, organizations are demonstrating what works to create lasting pathways out of poverty.
By supporting high-impact organizations and the communities they serve, we have a unique opportunity to accelerate progress and drive meaningful, lasting change.
This is a moment to act—building on proven approaches, strengthening partnerships, and expanding opportunity for communities around the world.
20 Years and Growing: Stories of Our Impact on Poverty
As we celebrate our anniversary year, explore powerful stories of alumni driving meaningful change around the world. Discover how we’ve built a distinctive approach to addressing poverty, one that draws on our GSB education and collective experience, and how rewarding it is to be part of Project Redwood.
Dive in below, check back often for new stories and fresh impact, and consider joining us in advancing our mission.
The Spark for Project Redwood
In the months ahead, we'll be sharing more stories of the alumni whose passion and generosity have fueled Project Redwood's impact. Here is a peek at what is coming soon!
Finding and Supporting Great Organizations
Together is Better!
Finding Personal Growth and Meaning
Our Success at Alleviating Poverty
Turning Investment into Impact
Our Future Growth and Vision
Committed to Change
For 20 years, Project Redwood has brought together alumni, ideas, and resources to support organizations creating pathways out of poverty around the world.
Grants Awarded
Each grant demonstrates our commitment to supporting local leaders and organizations developing innovative, scalable solutions to alleviate poverty.
Funded Projects
High-impact initiatives we fund open doors to education, job training, employment, and entrepreneurship in underserved communities.
Lives Improved
Through local innovation and proven solutions, our grantees drive lasting, measurable change for people facing poverty.
Countries Impacted
Our global reach allows us to support grassroots solutions in diverse regions where our work can make the greatest difference.
See Our Impact
Our GSB Community Powers a Unique and Highly Effective Model
Our model brings together two powerful forces: identifying and supporting high-impact nonprofits, and activating a deeply engaged Stanford GSB community to help them grow and succeed.
Identifying and Scaling High Impact Nonprofits
- Invest exclusively in nonprofits sponsored by GSB alumni
- Prioritize small, proven organizations with strong growth potential
- Apply a rigorous, data-driven vetting process refined over 20 years
- Strengthen grantees through financial and advisory support
Activating a Highly Engaged GSB Community
- Leverage a large, global alumni network spanning multiple decades
- Multiply our impact through collective action and shared purpose
- Create meaningful, high-impact opportunities for volunteers
- Strengthen connections across the GSB community
Looking Ahead to Drive Meaningful Change
Building on 20 years of success, we are focused on the next phase of growth and opportunity.
Expand
Expand our grantmaking to reach more high-potential organizations and unlock greater impact.
Deepen
Deepen alumni engagement by creating meaningful opportunities to contribute skills, experience, and expertise.
Scale
Scale measurable outcomes by strengthening our community and helping our grantees achieve long-term results.
Innovate
Advance innovative, community-driven solutions that address the evolving challenges of global poverty.
With your help, we aim to improve the lives of another 1 million people!
Get Involved
Our impact is powered by GSB Alumni, like you. Whether you have time, resources, or curiosity, there's a meaningful way for you to get involved.
Volunteer
Lend your skills to support our mission worldwide.
Donate
Support high-impact projects that fight poverty.
Attend an Event
Join one of our engaging virtual or in-person events.
Let’s Talk!
Curious to learn more about Project Redwood? Connect with a fellow GSBer to see how you can put your skills to work.