With a passion for fundraising, Richard Giam found Rainmakerz Pte Ltd, exclusive business growth and fundraising advisory firm that services organisations, business owners, investors and entrepreneurs in Singapore.
What’s your story?
In September 2017, I quit my 5 figure monthly income corporate fundraising job to start my own company Rainmakerz Pte Ltd to provide fundraising consultancy services for companies as well as non-profits. I was appointed as a Goodwill Ambassador with Singapore Red Cross in January 2018 as well as the First Ambassador with Kenn Foundation in August 2018. I wrote, fundraised and published a book “Fundraising Among the Giants: How to Attract High Net Worth Individuals and Major Donors for Good” in October 2018. My book launch event had over 400 attendees, mainly donors, business owners, high net worth individuals and friends. All proceeds of the book were donated to Singapore Red Cross.
Personally, I came from a low-income family and I started work at my parents’ hawker stall during weekends and holidays since primary school till university days. I took a tuition fee loan and receive a “bursary” from a relative for my daily expenses as a university student. I was grateful for this help and it spurred my motivation in my career and eventually, to help others by offering my fundraising expertise, hence the creation of my book.
What excites you most about your industry?
Fundraising is an industry which allows you to connect the rich with the poor. It gives you the opportunity to move the hearts of the giants so that they can create a huge impact in the lives of deserving individuals and society.
What’s your connection to Asia?
I was born and raised in Singapore. Here, I got to transform my passion into a career which is fundraising. Ever Since, I have been fundraising for various organizations like Community Chest, NTU, SMU and Community Causes for many years before starting my own company.
Favourite city in Asia for business and why?
Singapore. An affluent city with many high net worth individuals as well as a relatively corrupt-free environment with strict governance controls.
What’s the best piece of advice you ever received?
It is more blessed to give than to receive. Do unto others what you want others to do unto you.
Who inspires you?
Anyone with a heart to give and love unconditionally.
What have you just learnt recently that blew you away?
Don’t take life too seriously. Learn to forgive and let go. People come and go in our lives.
If you had your time again, what would you do differently?
If I could turn back time, I would have embarked on my entrepreneurship journey much earlier.
How do you unwind?
Coffee sessions with friends, movies, KTV and spending time alone resting.
Favourite Asian destination for relaxation? Why?
Thailand. Land of friendly smiles and nice beaches and sea.
Everyone in business should read this book:
There are many insightful books out there, however I find that there are many talented people in both corporate and charities who are looking for funds to achieve their goals, hence I recommend my book “Fundraising Among the Giants: How to Attract High Net Worth Individuals and Major Donors for Good” – to get them started on raising funds for both their company or social cause.
Shameless plug for your business:
Rainmakerz – A consultancy focused on creating miracles through connections.
How can people connect with you?
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/richard.giam.5 or through my website: www.rainmakerz.sg
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This interview is part of the ‘Callum Connect’ series of more than 500 interviews
Callum Laing is an entrepreneur and investor based in Singapore. He has previously started,
built and sold half a dozen businesses and is now a Partner at Unity-Group Private Equity and Co-Founder of The Marketing Group PLC. He is the author two best selling books ‘Progressive Partnerships’ and ‘Agglomerate’.
Connect with Callum here:
twitter.com/laingcallum
linkedin.com/in/callumlaing
Download free copies of his books here: www.callumlaing.com
