A philantrophic foundation for Aotearoa
What is Steward Ownership?
Steward ownership is a form of corporate governance and ownership that prioritises a company’s long-term mission and values over short-term profit maximization.
In this model, companies are owned or governed by stewards (often charitable foundations) who are committed to upholding the company’s core mission, ensuring ethical and aligned decision making, and distributing funds for good.
Profits are reinvested, used to cover capital costs, shared amongst stakeholders (ie. employees) or donated for charitable purposes.
Generous Ventures was initiated in 2023 after ten years as the Thankyou Payroll Charitable Trust. We’re drinking our own champagne – we believe in steward ownership, and we’re doing it.
Generous Ventures is in the process of becoming the charitable owner of Thankyou Payroll. Over the next 4-6 years, Thankyou Payroll will buy back equity from its shareholders and move ownership to Generous Ventures.
Once the transition is complete, Generous Ventures will fully own Thankyou Payroll, and all profits from the business will be used for purpose-driven philanthropy and investment across Aotearoa New Zealand.
The team at Generous Ventures are proud to work in partnership with the staff, board and customers of Thankyou Payroll. Together we will demonstrate new ways of working to deliver positive outcomes for Aotearoa New Zealand
