Entrepreneur helps people transition from homelessness to opportunity

Andrew Funk, after experiencing homelessness in Barcelona, Spain, founded Homeless Entrepreneur, an organization that has assisted over 3,500 people experiencing homelessness across 21 countries.

Funk started the organization after losing his business and facing a difficult choice between returning to the United States or remaining in Barcelona near his son. He recognized the need to help others regain independence not through charity, but by reconnecting them with employment, resources, and supportive relationships.

Homeless Entrepreneur uses innovative methods like “Voces,” a social media platform where people experiencing homelessness share their skills and needs, allowing potential helpers to connect directly. The organization also provides comprehensive support, lasting up to a year, in areas like job searching, health, training, housing, finances, and legal issues. They raise awareness by organizing walks to high-profile events, such as the World Economic Forum in Davos and the FIFA World Cup final. Funk emphasizes that simply providing shelter isn’t enough.

He believes people need work, connections, personal projects, and a sense of purpose to truly rebuild their lives. He learned this through his own experience and by witnessing the stories of those he helped, including Juan Mascuñano, who died of happiness after experiencing the joy of flying an aircraft following years of homelessness. People can support the organization by following their Instagram account, @andrewfunkspain, where they share individual stories and requests for assistance.