So interesting! From the outset, this idea made no sense but now it feels quite ingenious.
It seems like this accelerator worked in a similar way to the Giving What We Can pledge – most people who sign that pledge would’ve probably already donated 2-3% of their wealth, but signing the pledge makes that number go up to 10% or more because the 10% anchor makes them rethink what an appropriate number might be and also provides social proof that it is a reasonable thing. Similarly here, the participants would’ve already given 10% away, but the program made it reasonable and socially validated to say “yeah, we’ll give half of it away, that sounds reasonable”. Is this a good rephrase?
Self-selection effects on the program are also interesting here—would you say the accelerator community was particularly better than any other accelerator community? More generous and helpful, similar core values, etc.
aclearbag
Super interesting to read about this program! How did you persuade people to commit 50% of their exit to effective charities?
If folks were already earning-to-give minded and entrepreneurially inclined, the odds were that they would build and then give their wealth away (eg: Ratan Tata) so the counterfactual impact here is low. If they weren’t already earning-to-give minded, why were they signing up for an accelerator that requires them to give up 50% of their wealth?
Could you help me understand the mechanics of this a bit more? Super interesting work!
2025 Update:
I built a directory of project ideas along similar lines to this post. It’s called Oasis of Ideas and have seen decent traction with it – people submit ideas, people also browse it to find ideas, and people also discuss the ideas.
2025 Update:
I built such a directory. It’s called Oasis of Ideas and have seen decent traction with it – people submit ideas, people also browse it to find ideas, and people also discuss the ideas.
I would love to connect with anyone who’s interested to see how we can further develop and make this a success. Specifically, would love any introductions to organisations that can help spread the word about the platform and also anyone who might be able to help me get funding.
Hi! Check out www.oasis-of-ideas.com – it is essentially what you’re looking for.
It’s been many years, and I have similar questions in my head. Curious to know if you found any answers.