Why Slow Capitalism?
The decision on how to allocate surplus wealth—the amount beyond what’s needed for retirement and your lifestyle—is often seen as a binary choice: invest for financial returns or donate for social impact. However, this view felt too restrictive for those of us seeking a hybrid approach that benefits both our finances and our communities. Thus, we coined the term “Slow Capitalism,” inspired by the Slow Food movement, to describe investments that support both financial growth and community well-being.
This concept became particularly apparent through investments in local businesses like grocery stores, cafes, and gyms—enterprises that, while not primarily social ventures, play a vital role in community engagement and provide essential services. Our mission is to spotlight these examples and encourage more investors to embrace Slow Capitalism.
Why is Slow Capitalism Needed?
Many local businesses crucial to community well-being and quality of life are at risk of closing because the costs of purchase or repair are prohibitively high for most residents. Often, these businesses are owned by individuals nearing retirement who struggle to find buyers capable of securing the necessary capital. Additionally, the scarcity of accessible capital discourages the launch of new businesses. While loans might be available, the profit margins for many local businesses are too slim to sustain both the repayment of these loans and the livelihoods of the entrepreneurs who run them. This situation leaves communities deprived of essential services and resources.
