Matt Holguin ’02, MBA ’05

While a student at Azusa Pacific University, Matt Holguin ’02, MBA ’05 wrestled with the decision to pursue his passion for business or his calling to be a pastor. Encouraged by one of his professors, Matt realized the two could go hand-in-hand. He went on to complete a B.A. in Business Administration and MBA at APU’s School of Business and Management with a desire to one day use business as a ministry.

During one of his MBA courses, Matt and two friends developed a business model that focused on creating a purpose-driven, rather than profit-driven, company. It was the first step in making Matt’s dream a reality. That project laid the foundation for Working to Give, a for-profit business created for the sole purpose of earning money to give it away and make a difference in the lives of others.

The company began with Colossal Gelato, a mobile gelato stand, and has since expanded to include several sister companies under the umbrella of Working to Give, with 50 percent of profits go back into the community in which the businesses operate. As his dream continues to grow, Matt hopes this vision will inspire others to see their careers—in any field—as ministry.