Naveen Jain and Intelius’ Philanthropy Culture
Since its launch in 2003, Intelius has expanded financially and has contributed to more than 50 charities in India and Washington, both local and national. Headed by Indian entrepreneur Naveen Jain, Intelius has not only increased its progress in public records, but also in its philanthropic contributions. In 2008, the company’s total contribution was a record-breaking $209,875; and with just 191 employees, the company has set a new corporate giving record.
According to CEO Naveen Jain, taking care of a success business and an effective philanthropy program are quite the same. Both involve problem identification in order to come up with the most viable solution for every situation. Aside from the online services it offers, Intelius also focuses on volunteerism and even has an employee matching program that helps address community needs.
Jain is a graduate of the Indian Institute of Technology in 1979. He transferred to the United States upon joining a business exchange program. As a former senior executive of Microsoft, he received recognition as one of the 400 Richest Americans by Forbes Magazine in 2000. He only founded Intelius in 2003 after leaving InfoSpace, an online business offering Internet content to various Web-based clients.
Intellius has been actively engaged in many philanthropic events since its creation in 2003. The company has openhandedly donated to a variety of organizations and foundations that are advocates of healthcare, youth and family services, education, and hunger prevention.
In March 2009, Naveen Jain received honors from the Overlake Service League (OSL) during the 10th annual “Step Up to the Plate” Benefit Luncheon. Along with his wife, Anu, Jain became an honorary chair of the event, a tribute that complements the couple’s commitment to a number of nonprofit organizations and their dedication in making donations a “business priority”. According to the Director of Fundraising for the OSL, the Jains play an important role in their community as leaders of philanthropy. The couple has continuously reached out to those in need even as the economy continues to decline.
