Dorian Dickinson

Dorian Dickinson founded FundingHope with the mission of connecting investors to entrepreneurs and SMEs in economically disadvantaged communities to help achieve UN SDG targets and to grow stronger in America and around the world. For over a decade, Dickinson has worked on economic development and sustainability projects in rural America, as well as in conflict zones and developing countries in the Middle East, South America, Africa, and Southeast Asia.

Dorian Dickinson’s career began with the Connecticut State Police before he established himself as a leader in the development of innovative business strategies for leading retailers and consumer goods companies in America and Europe.

For the past 15-years, Mr. Dickinson has dedicated his career to creating and building economic development activity, sustainability programs, and improved health and sanitation initiatives in rural and economically challenged communities in the US, Mexico, South America, the Middle East, Africa, and Southeast Asia. Mr. Dickinson was part of the leadership team that developed the first commercial poultry farming operation in Afghanistan in over 40-years. During his career, Dickinson has developed rural development programs that aim to disrupt drug cartel routes in Mexico and Central America, and he has introduced renewable energy and improved sanitation to drought-stricken areas of Kenya and Palestine.

Closer to home, the American Farm Bureau Federation recognized Mr. Dickinson as the architect of the first comprehensive agribusiness-focused economic development program for rural communities. Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel’s administration contracted with Mr. Dickinson to create Make It Right, the city’s first all-encompassing crime prevention, youth engagement and community development project.

Mr. Dickinson is a commissioned Kentucky Colonel, the highest title of honor bestowed by the Governor of Kentucky, in recognition of his noteworthy accomplishments and outstanding service to community, state, nation and planet. He was twice named Illinois Agribusiness Leader of the Year, was a charter board member of the Council of the Great Lakes Region, and has been recognized by Canada’s Governor General, the Right Honourable David Johnston, as a cross-border economic development leader.

Throughout his career, Mr. Dickinson has built a proven record of success as a skilled strategist, out-of-the-box innovator and passionate entrepreneur collaborating with governments, companies, and internationally recognized organizations in primary, secondary, and tertiary industries.

Co-Founder & Managing Director, FundingHope