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Don Larson

CEO/Founder of Sunshine Nut Company

Don Larson is the founder, President, and CEO of Sunshine Nut Company, a social enterprise based in Mozambique that produces and sells cashews.12 Here are some key details about Don Larson:

Career Background

Before founding Sunshine Nut Company, Don had an extensive career in the food industry:

  • He worked at The Hershey Company for over 15 years, holding various leadership positions including Director of Cocoa Operations and Director of Global Sourcing.1
  • He also had roles at other companies like King's Consulting Group and Food Processing International.1

Founding Sunshine Nut Company

In 2011, Don made a significant life change:

  • He left his corporate career in the U.S. and moved with his family to Mozambique.25
  • He sold his possessions, including his Porsche and house with a swimming pool, to fund the start of Sunshine Nut Company.2
  • The company was founded with a strong social mission to revive Mozambique's cashew industry and create economic opportunities.3

Business Model and Impact

Don developed a unique business model called "The Sunshine Approach" with a focus on social impact:

  • 90% of the company's profits are reinvested in Mozambique.34
  • The company employs adult orphans and supports farming communities.4
  • It aims to transform lives by providing jobs and supporting orphans and vulnerable children.3

Personal Motivation

Don's decision to start Sunshine Nut Company was driven by his faith and a desire to make a positive impact:

  • He felt called to "build food factories in Third World nations to build lasting economic transformation".2
  • His experiences during business trips to Africa while working for Hershey inspired him to address poverty issues.5

Don Larson's LinkedIn profile (username: donaldalarson) reflects his current role as President/CEO of Sunshine Nut Company, which he has held since February 2011.1

Highlights

Jun 14 · kinarobertshaw.com
Don Larson in Conversation Kina Robertshaw
May 28 · sunshinenuts.com
The Sunshine Story
Apr 14 · sunshinenuts.com
The Sunshine Approach Foundation
Jul 11 · forbes.com
Why A Former Hershey Exec Sold His Porsche To Build A Cashew ...
The Sunshine Approach: Running a Business with a Social Mission

Related Questions

What inspired Don Larson to leave the corporate world and start Sunshine Nut Company?
How has Don Larson's "Sunshine Approach" impacted Mozambique's economy?
What challenges did Don Larson face when starting Sunshine Nut Company in Mozambique?
How does Don Larson's business model incorporate faith and cultural diversity?
What is the "reverse tithe" concept that Don Larson implements at Sunshine Nut Company?
Don Larson
Don Larson, photo 1
Don Larson, photo 2
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Location

Mozambique