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Matthew Forti
Managing Director at One Acre Fund - Farmers First!
Professional Background
Matthew Forti is a passionate and dedicated leader in the nonprofit sector, currently serving as the US Managing Director of One Acre Fund, which stands as the largest nonprofit social enterprise focused on enhancing the livelihoods of Africa's smallholder farmers. His significant contributions to the organization's mission began in 2006, when he played a pivotal role in its establishment at the Kellogg School of Management, serving proudly as the inaugural Board Chair. In his current role, Matthew oversees various global support functions, drives business development initiatives, manages governing boards, and fosters thought leadership within the United States.
Under Matthew's steadfast leadership, One Acre Fund has made remarkable strides in assisting over 1.4 million smallholder farm families across Africa. These families gain access to vital resources, including finance, farm inputs, training, and post-harvest support, enabling them to significantly enhance their incomes and resilience against climate challenges. The organization's unwavering commitment to eradicating chronic hunger among Africa’s 50 million smallholder farm families reflects Matthew's vision and dedication.
Before his impactful tenure at One Acre Fund, Matthew honed his expertise at the Bridgespan Group, where he worked as a Manager and co-led the Performance Measurement Practice. His experience in the nonprofit consulting space allowed him to develop a keen understanding of organizational effectiveness and strategic development, which he now applies at One Acre Fund.
Matthew's professional journey is marked by a deep commitment to social impact and sustainable development. His entrepreneurial spirit and leadership abilities continue to inspire others to engage in the vital work of supporting agricultural communities in Africa.
Education and Achievements
Matthew's educational background laid the groundwork for his successful career in both nonprofit management and economic development. He earned his MBA with distinction from the esteemed Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University, where he not only learned innovative management strategies but also connected with forward-thinking leaders in the field.
Additionally, he graduated summa cum laude from Northwestern University, where he earned a BA in Economics and Sociology. This unique combination of disciplines has equipped Matthew with a comprehensive understanding of the complex socio-economic factors affecting smallholder farmers, an insight that is invaluable in his work at One Acre Fund. His commitment to excellence in education reflects his belief in the transformative power of knowledge and learning.
Furthermore, Matthew’s early education at Marlboro High School set the stage for his future achievements, nurturing his analytical skills and fostering a dedication to service and community engagement.
Achievements
Matthew Forti’s outstanding career is characterized by numerous significant achievements. As the US Managing Director of One Acre Fund, his leadership has been crucial in expanding the reach and impact of the organization. One Acre Fund’s innovative agricultural bundle model, which empowers farmers with tools and resources, has become a benchmark for success in the nonprofit sector. Matthew’s guidance has been instrumental in ensuring that the organization effectively addresses the challenges faced by smallholder farmers in Africa, especially in terms of food insecurity and poverty.
His role in coordinating global support functions and leading business development efforts has fortified One Acre Fund’s position as a thought leader in agriculture and rural development. Additionally, Matthew has played a critical role in building collaborative relationships with various stakeholders, including donors, partners, and advocating for policy changes to support smallholder farmers.
Moreover, his previous experience at the Bridgespan Group, where he co-led the Performance Measurement Practice, has equipped him with a strong foundation in performance metrics and evaluation strategies. This expertise allows him to continually enhance One Acre Fund's programmatic effectiveness, ensuring that the organization’s efforts yield tangible results for the communities it serves.
As a notable figure in the nonprofit sector, Matthew remains committed to growing One Acre Fund and inspiring future leaders through strategic mentorship and encouragement. His ongoing search for entrepreneurial leaders with a passion for social change underlines his belief in the importance of cultivating talent from within the communities served by One Acre Fund.
Matthew Forti's journey is a testament to the power of dedicated leadership, strategic innovation, and a steadfast commitment to improving the livelihoods of those in need. His work continues to inspire many, as he and his team tackle the pressing challenges faced by farmers in Africa, ultimately working towards the goal of eradicating hunger and poverty.
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