Smart$uccess
Micro Grants, Macro impact
We envision a world where every individual, regardless of their background or location, can access the financial tools and knowledge needed to make confident, informed decisions. Our mission is to break down barriers to entrepreneurship by transforming financial literacy into a foundation for sustainable, thriving businesses.
Our Approach to Financial Literacy
Learn how to manage money and start a business with our book, ‘Success Isn’t Granted, It’s Earned.’ We teach important money skills that can help you build a better future. Find out how our book is used to teach these skills to young entrepreneurs.
Success isn’t Granted, it’s Earned: 30+ Financial Secrets
by Rohan Balakrishnan (Author), Adam Dalloul (Author)
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“As someone passionate about the practical application of financial knowledge, I’ve always been drawn to causes that have a tangible impact. One of my proudest accomplishments was launching a business journal for youth to contribute and become aware of various topics in the field of business, finance and economics.
Writing Success Isn’t Granted, It’s Earned was a natural extension of my passion for economics, finance, and personal growth. This book reflects my journey of learning and my mission to make financial literacy accessible to everyone. I believe that with the right tools, anyone can unlock their potential and drive positive change.
My ongoing exploration into how technology, particularly AI, can enhance financial inclusion is part of my commitment to understanding and improving the systems that shape our world. I’m driven to explore how we can use these tools to bridge the financial literacy gap in underserved communities.” - Rohan
Rohan Balakrishnan
Founder and Manager
Rohan Balakrishnan leads Smart$uccess with a passion for equipping underserved youth with the financial tools needed to succeed in business and life. As the driving force behind Smart$uccess, Rohan has worked to break down barriers to entrepreneurship by delivering financial literacy courses that inspire and empower young entrepreneurs in developing countries. His leadership extends to the Youth Business Journal initiative, which brings together diverse voices in business from across the county, fostering a global exchange of ideas.
In line with Smart$uccess’s vision of a world where everyone can make informed financial decisions, Rohan’s Oxford Journal publication “Return of Inflation” and his book, “Success Isn’t Granted, It’s Earned,” each a reflection of his commitment to providing financial education as a foundation for sustainable, thriving businesses. His work exemplifies the organization’s mission, transforming financial literacy into a tool for long-term economic empowerment and growth.
Relevant Awards and Achievements:
- TEDx Award (TKS Program)
- “Innovationist” - Oxford Scholastica Academy
- Business Club Co-Leader
- King County Youth Business Journal Co-Founder and Author
- Author, Success Isn’t Granted, It’s Earned
STEVEN DUGGAN
Literacy Programs Champion
Steven Duggan, former Director of Microsoft Education and UNESCO leader, now leads an AI product for education. His Lit4Life program uses digital tools to provide accessible learning resources to underserved communities worldwide.
PAIGE PULLEN
Education Strategy
Paige Pullen focuses on crafting evidence-based education strategies and innovative curricula that foster dynamic learning environments, ensuring student engagement and success across diverse contexts.
RAM PERUVEMBA
Technology Strategy
Ram Peruvemba, former Director of Azure at Microsoft and now Chief Technology Officer at Terawe, brings a robust background in cloud computing and AI solutions. At Microsoft, he led strategic initiatives that shaped the growth of Azure.
Why We Started
We launched with a clear aim to stimulate entrepreneurship in developing regions through micro-lending competitions. These contests are not just about providing funds; they’re catalysts for innovation, business acumen, and sustainable development.
Our Difference
Our programs are more than just a funding opportunity; they’re a launchpad for lifelong skills and community transformation. We’re not just funding businesses; we’re investing in people, in communities, and ultimately, in the future of developing economies.