Short Summary
Blake Mycoskie is an American entrepreneur, philanthropist, and author best known for founding TOMS Shoes, a company that revolutionized social entrepreneurship with its "One for One" business model. His innovative approach to business has impacted millions by providing shoes, eyewear, and clean water to those in need. Mycoskie has become a leading figure in the movement for socially responsible business, inspiring countless entrepreneurs to incorporate giving into their business models.
Early Life & Education
Blake Mycoskie was born on August 26, 1976, in Arlington, Texas. He grew up in a family that valued creativity and entrepreneurship, which influenced his future endeavors. Mycoskie attended St. Stephen's Episcopal School in Austin before enrolling at Southern Methodist University (SMU), where he studied philosophy and business. His early experiences, including a stint on the reality TV show "The Amazing Race," fueled his passion for travel and exposed him to diverse cultures, which would later inform his philanthropic business ventures.
Career Highlights
Mycoskie's career began with entrepreneurial ventures such as a successful collegiate laundry service and an outdoor billboard company, which he sold for a profit. In 2006, while traveling in Argentina, he was inspired to create TOMS Shoes after witnessing children without shoes. TOMS quickly gained attention for its "One for One" model, where every pair of shoes sold resulted in a pair being donated to a child in need. This model expanded to eyewear, with TOMS helping restore sight to individuals in need, and further into clean water and safe birth services.
Major Achievements
- Founded TOMS Shoes, a pioneer in social entrepreneurship with its "One for One" model.
- Expanded TOMS' giving model to include eyewear, clean water, and safe birth services.
- Authored the book "Start Something That Matters," sharing insights on social entrepreneurship.
- Named in Fortune's "40 Under 40" list and recognized by the Clinton Global Initiative.
- Influenced a new wave of businesses to integrate social responsibility into their core missions.
Famous Quotes
- "The more you give, the more you live."
- "I believe you can have a successful business and a positive impact on the world."
- "When you incorporate giving into your business, you attract like-minded people."
Interesting Facts
- Mycoskie was a contestant on the second season of "The Amazing Race," where he finished third.
- He originally founded TOMS as "Shoes for Tomorrow" before shortening the name.
- TOMS stands for "Tomorrow's Shoes," reflecting its mission to create a better tomorrow.
- He sold half of TOMS to Bain Capital in 2014 to expand the company's reach and impact.
- In addition to business, Mycoskie is an avid traveler and adventurer.
Legacy / Influence
Blake Mycoskie's legacy lies in pioneering the concept of social entrepreneurship and inspiring a generation of businesses to prioritize giving back. His "One for One" model set a precedent in the business world, demonstrating that companies can be both profitable and socially responsible. Mycoskie's influence continues to resonate, encouraging entrepreneurs to integrate social good into their business strategies, thereby fostering a culture of compassion and change.
FAQ
Q: Why is Blake Mycoskie famous?
A: Because of founding TOMS Shoes and its innovative "One for One" business model.
Q: What is the "One for One" model?
A: It's a business approach where a product purchased results in a similar product being donated to someone in need.
Q: Has Blake Mycoskie written any books?
A: Yes, he authored "Start Something That Matters," focusing on social entrepreneurship.
Q: What happened to TOMS after its founding?
A: TOMS expanded its giving model beyond shoes to include eyewear, clean water, and safe birth services.
