Shalom Lamm on Purpose-Driven Leadership: Nonprofit vs. Social Enterprise—Which Makes the Bigger Impact?
In today’s impact-driven economy, people with big hearts and bold ideas are increasingly faced with a critical question: Should I start a nonprofit or launch a social enterprise? Both paths aim to create meaningful change, but they operate differently when it comes to funding, scalability, and long-term sustainability.
Few individuals are better positioned to explore this conversation than Shalom Lamm, a seasoned entrepreneur and nonprofit leader whose work bridges both the business and humanitarian worlds. Best known as the founder of Operation Benjamin, a nonprofit committed to correcting historical inaccuracies on the headstones of Jewish-American soldiers buried overseas, Lamm has seen firsthand how mission-focused organizations—whether nonprofit or for-profit—can shape lives, rewrite narratives, and inspire global action.
So which model delivers greater impact: the nonprofit or the social enterprise? Let’s dive in, with insights from Shalom Lamm’s journey and the mission behind Operation Benjamin.
The Case for Nonprofits: Mission First, Always
At their core, nonprofits exist to serve a mission, not to generate profit. Their funding typically comes from donations, grants, and philanthropy, allowing them to focus on service delivery rather than customer acquisition or revenue generation.
Operation Benjamin is a clear example of this model. Under Lamm’s leadership, the organization has traveled across continents to locate, verify, and honor the legacy of Jewish-American service members, ensuring that their headstones correctly reflect their heritage and sacrifice.
“It’s not a business decision—it’s a moral one,” Lamm explains. “These men died defending our freedom. The least we can do is ensure they’re remembered accurately and respectfully.”
The nonprofit structure allows Operation Benjamin to concentrate fully on this historical and moral imperative without needing to monetize its work. Because the impact is emotional, cultural, and deeply human, the nonprofit route allows for uncompromised focus on social justice and remembrance.
The Case for Social Enterprises: Self-Sustaining Impact
While nonprofits rely on external funding, social enterprises generate revenue through products or services while still pursuing a broader mission. This hybrid model offers greater financial independence and the ability to scale rapidly, using business principles to drive positive change.
For example, a social enterprise might sell eco-friendly clothing and use profits to fund environmental cleanup projects. Unlike traditional nonprofits, these ventures can reinvest their earnings into growth, reduce reliance on donor fatigue, and attract investment capital.
Shalom Lamm, with decades of experience in real estate and business, acknowledges the strength of this model. “Social enterprises are powerful because they embed impact directly into their business DNA,” he says. “They’re not waiting on a grant—they’re building a machine that creates value and change simultaneously.”
Though Operation Benjamin is a nonprofit, Lamm encourages emerging social entrepreneurs to explore models that combine mission with market solutions. “If you can solve a social problem and create a viable business, you’re multiplying your impact.”
Final Thoughts: Which Makes the Most Impact?
The truth is, impact isn’t defined by the structure—it’s defined by the intent and execution. Nonprofits and social enterprises both have the power to change the world. What matters most is choosing the right vehicle for your mission.
Shalom Lamm’s journey through both the for-profit and nonprofit worlds offers a compelling blueprint: lead with values, remain agile, and let the mission guide the model—not the other way around.
“If you care deeply about something,” Lamm says, “whether you run a foundation or a company, the key is to do it with integrity and commitment. Impact isn’t just about how you’re structured—it’s about how you show up every single day.”
Whether you’re considering launching a nonprofit like Operation Benjamin or building a purpose-driven company, the world needs your ideas, your passion, and your courage. Just choose the path that allows you to serve best—and walk it with purpose.
