Brett Hagler is the CEO and co-founder of New Story, a venture dedicated to ending global homelessness. Founded in 2014, New Story has pioneered innovative housing solutions, including the world's first 3D-printed community, to provide safe and affordable homes to families in need. Brett's leadership has been recognized by Forbes' 30 Under 30 list and Goldman Sachs' Top 100 Most Intriguing Entrepreneurs.
The Problem
Over 1.6 billion people worldwide lack access to safe and adequate housing, leading to increased vulnerability to disease, violence, and economic instability. Traditional housing solutions often fail to meet the scale and urgency of this crisis, leaving millions without a place to call home.
The Solution
New Story addresses this issue by developing sustainable, affordable housing using innovative technologies like 3D printing. By collaborating with local communities and leveraging market-based solutions, New Story builds homes that are both cost-effective and culturally appropriate, empowering families to achieve homeownership and break the cycle of poverty.
The Motivation
Brett's motivation stems from his firsthand experiences witnessing the devastating effects of inadequate housing during a mission trip to Haiti. This exposure ignited his passion to create scalable solutions to the housing crisis. His background in business and technology, combined with a commitment to social impact, drives his dedication to innovating in the social sector.
The Lessons
Brett's journey with New Story offers valuable lessons in social entrepreneurship:
Innovation in Social Impact: Applying technological advancements, such as 3D printing, to address complex social issues demonstrates the potential for innovation in the nonprofit sector.
Community-Centric Approach: Engaging with local communities to develop culturally relevant and sustainable housing solutions ensures that interventions are effective and embraced by those they aim to help.
Scalability and Sustainability: Implementing market-based solutions that are both scalable and sustainable is crucial for creating lasting impact and addressing systemic challenges.
Conclusion
Brett Hagler's leadership of New Story exemplifies how combining innovation, community engagement, and sustainable practices can transform the housing landscape for vulnerable populations. His commitment continues to inspire efforts toward ending global homelessness and providing families with the stability and dignity of a home.