NECA Awards Video Series: Vivek Sharma on Philanthropy: Start Early, Build the Mindset, and Let Resources Follow

BOSTON—For Vivek Sharma, philanthropy is not simply about giving away wealth. It is about developing a mindset of sharing, identifying meaningful ways to make a difference, and creating opportunities that can transform lives for generations to come.

Sharma, a Boston-based entrepreneur, investor and philanthropist, will be honored as the 2026 Philanthropist of the Year at the New England Choice Awards gala on November 14. Through the Vivek and Vandana Sharma Family Foundation, he has supported initiatives spanning education, healthcare, community development, environmental sustainability, sports, and arts and culture, with a particular focus on creating lasting social impact in India.

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In an exclusive video interview with INDIA New England News, Sharma shared his philosophy of philanthropy and offered advice to the next generation of philanthropists: Start early, cultivate the mindset to help, and focus on the difference you want to make.

His message is straightforward. The desire to give and contribute to society should come before the size of one’s financial resources. Once the mindset to help is established, resources and opportunities can follow.

That philosophy is reflected in the breadth of the Sharma Family Foundation’s work, which addresses needs across different stages of life—from educating and empowering young girls to supporting disadvantaged children and ensuring dignified care for senior citizens.

Investing in People and Their Potential

One of the foundation’s significant initiatives supports several thousand young girls in Uttarakhand through programs focused on education, healthcare, and livelihood development. The effort aims to expand opportunities for girls and help them build more independent and secure futures.

Education is another important pillar of Sharma’s philanthropic work. He has supported a center at Northeastern University dedicated to promoting the study and understanding of India, helping strengthen educational and cultural connections between India and the United States.

As a founder and trustee of Rishihood University in India, Sharma has also contributed to an institution focused on values-based education, leadership, entrepreneurship, and innovation.

These initiatives reflect a broad understanding of education—not merely as a pathway to employment, but as a means of developing leadership, encouraging innovation, and preparing future generations to contribute meaningfully to society.

Dignity, Care and Opportunity at Every Stage of Life

The foundation’s work also extends to communities and individuals who may otherwise have limited access to essential support.

In India, it has established a state-of-the-art elder care center designed to bring senior living, comprehensive support services, and integrated medical facilities together on one campus. The initiative addresses the growing need for compassionate and holistic approaches to elder care.

The foundation also supports a residential care and development center for young boys, including orphans and children from disadvantaged backgrounds. The center provides education, healthcare, mentorship, and a nurturing environment to help them build brighter futures.

Together, these initiatives illustrate an approach to philanthropy that goes beyond immediate relief. They seek to build support systems that help people live with greater security, dignity, and opportunity.

Supporting India’s Sporting and Cultural Aspirations

Sharma’s philanthropic interests also encompass sports, environmental sustainability, and the preservation of India’s cultural heritage.

As a board member of Olympic Gold Quest, he has helped mobilize support for India’s Olympic and Paralympic athletes, contributing to efforts to advance the country’s sporting ambitions.

Through partnerships with nonprofit organizations, the foundation supports large-scale tree plantation initiatives across several Indian states. It also backs organizations working to preserve and promote Indian art, music, culture, and heritage.

The range of these efforts reflects a view of philanthropy that encompasses both immediate human needs and the long-term well-being of communities, institutions, and the environment.

A Business Career Informed by Leadership and Experience

Sharma’s philanthropic work follows a global business career spanning more than three decades. He has served as a partner at a leading Boston-based private equity firm and as chief executive officer and executive chairman of several global companies.

Early in his career, he was recognized among the Top 50 Finance Professionals in the United States. He later received a Best CEO in Pharma Services award from a leading global industry organization.

His experience in business and investment has given him a perspective on building organizations, mobilizing resources, and pursuing long-term goals—considerations that also matter when developing philanthropic initiatives designed to endure.

A Message for the Next Generation

For aspiring philanthropists, Sharma’s advice begins with a decision rather than a dollar amount: Start early and develop the mindset to help others.

His philosophy offers an accessible entry point for younger professionals, entrepreneurs, and families who want to contribute but may believe they need substantial wealth before they can make a meaningful difference.

Philanthropy can begin with a commitment to a cause, an investment of time, support for an existing initiative, or a willingness to bring people and resources together around a shared purpose.

The underlying principle is that the intention to contribute should not be postponed until a person reaches a particular level of financial success.

As Sharma prepares to receive the 2026 Philanthropist of the Year Award, his work through the Vivek and Vandana Sharma Family Foundation offers examples of how that commitment can extend across education, healthcare, community development, sports, the environment, and cultural preservation.

Ultimately, his message to the next generation is about making generosity a habit and social responsibility a way of life. Start with the mindset, focus on making a difference, and build from there. The resources may follow, but the commitment to help is where philanthropy begins.