An Overview

Growing Entreprenurial Grit

This course includes concepts from the book Grit by Angela Duckworth, Atomic Habits by James Clear, Importance of the Why by Simon Sinek, the Growth Mindset concept by Carol Dweck, John Doerr on the concept of OKRs from Measure What Matters, and our PW Growing Entrepreneurial Grit research. 

This course content is provided by a partner in Moja’s Trusted Network: Partners Worldwide.

Partners Worldwide pursued the Growing Entreprenurial Grit Research to better understand and nurture entrepreneurial grit to enhance business resiliency in marginalized communities, in light of the disruption and challenges experienced by businesses across the globe during the Covid-19 pandemic PW partnered with DataWise Consulting, LLC and Dr. JoAnn Flett of Seattle Pacific University to develop a research methodology and survey instrument that incorporated Dr. Angela Duckworth’s Grit measurement scale and a variety of business attributes and outcomes. The survey focused on the period prior to and surrounding the peak of the COVID-19 global pandemic (2017 to 2021).  

In total, 274 entrepreneurs from 22 countries were surveyed, 91% from Global South nations and 9% from the marginalized communities in the Global North. We will highlight some of the learnings, stories, and responses from the survey throughout this course. The purpose of this module is to help you understand the role of grit in entrepreneurship. Grit is the ability to persevere with passion (enthusiasm) through challenges and to achieve long-term goals despite obstacles. Entrepreneurial life is characterized by ambiguity, uncertainty, constant change, and hustling. Additionally, businesses globally face numerous challenges, such as poverty, limited resources, and political instability. Developing grit can help you overcome these challenges to achieve your goals. When entrepreneurs are growing and thriving, families, communities and countries benefit from the economic outcomes they create. 

The study also highlighted that elements such as purpose, perseverance, and hope, as outlined by Angela Duckworth, are crucial components of grit. Entrepreneurs who maintained a clear purpose, often rooted in faith, family, and community, demonstrated greater resilience. For instance, one respondent noted being motivated by "knowing that I’m making an impact on the lives of others." Another emphasized the importance of their business to provide for their family and employees during the pandemic.

These findings suggest that cultivating grit, through deliberate practices and aligning business goals with personal values, can enhance an entrepreneur's ability to navigate challenges and sustain their ventures during difficult times.

The Growing Entreprenurial Grit project and research is made possible through the support of Grant 62345 from the John Templeton Foundation and in partnership with DataWise Consulting, LLC, and Dr. JoAnn Flett of Seattle Pacific University. The opinions expressed in this article are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the John Templeton Foundation to understand and nurture entrepreneurial GRIT in marginalized communities, especially considering the challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Assessments and Learning Outcomes

Throughout the course, you will engage in peer discussions, reflective journaling, and group projects to reinforce your learning. Assessments at the end of each module will help gauge your understanding of GRIT and its application in real-world scenarios.

By the end of the course, you will:

• Have a deeper understanding of GRIT and its role in entrepreneurship

• Develop enhanced resilience and perseverance in your entrepreneurial ventures

• Leave with a personalized action plan that aligns with your goals and aspirations

• Build a network of peers who share your passion for entrepreneurship and personal growth

About Partners Worldwide

Partners Worldwide is a global network dedicated to empowering entrepreneurs and fostering economic development in underserved communities. Our mission is to connect local businesses with resources to thrive, ensuring that entrepreneurs have access to mentorship, training, and financial support. Through strategic partnerships and innovative programs, we support entrepreneurs at every stage of their journey, believing in the transformative power of entrepreneurship to lift individuals and communities out of poverty.

This course is part of our broader initiative to cultivate entrepreneurial mindsets, instill GRIT, and build a strong network of like-minded individuals who are committed to making a difference in their communities.

Vision of Partners Worldwide

We aspire to end poverty so that all may have life and have it abundantly. We believe business is a holy calling. Work and worship should not be divided—just as people are called to church ministry or social justice work, we believe people are called by God to business. We actively partner with those who share this belief.

Learn more about Partners Worldwide

Visit our Website: www.partnersworldwide.org