BUSINESS MODELS
SELF-EMPLOYED BY GOD BUSINESS MODEL FRAMEWORKBUSINESS MODELS
The following are descriptions outlining the various business models you might find yourself exploring on the path to becoming self-employed. Each model presents unique opportunities and challenges, shaped by your skills, calling and the needs of the marketplace.
Whichever model you explore, it’s important to stay rooted in prayer and seek God’s guidance daily. Your entrepreneurial journey is not just about financial success; it’s also about fulfilling your ministerial mission in the marketplace. Which God has equipped you uniquely for—so trust Him and have faith as you take your next steps forward.
The start-up model is designed for individuals who have an idea but have not started building the business side. This model is often referred to as the "newbie stage" as it provides a strategic framework and step-by-step process tailored for beginners.
At the core of this model is a strong emphasis on innovation and productivity, encouraging creative thinking alongside practical execution. For many creatives, this stage marks the exciting moment when their vision begins to take shape and become a tangible reality. It also serves as a powerful time for exploring, experimenting, and refining the various ideas that will eventually lead to a fully developed vision of what their business is destined to become.
The pioneer model emphasises the importance of self-reliance and the desire to build a business or a ministry from the ground up, often operating with limited funds or resources. This approach is common among sole traders, freelancers, and small business owners who take a hands-on approach to every aspect of their work. They take on the role of the "pioneer", forging new paths where none have existed before, while also embodying the role of a "DIYer", who personally handles most tasks and responsibilities themselves.
This model requires a personal sense of ownership and control, lower overhead costs, and a focus on gradual, organic growth. Instead of pursuing fast scalability or quick profits, it focuses on building a sustainable foundation that can withstand the test of time while foreseeing future market trends.
During this stage, you are not managing a team; you are the primary creative director, executing the work that defines your brand. As a creative leader or aspiring entrepreneur, now's the time to embrace your inner DIYer. Get involved, build something from the ground up, and personally connect with your call to lead. Don't wait for the perfect team or a big budget—begin creating the solution to someone's problem today.
The CEO model is for established marketplace leaders who have integrated their ministerial mission with their brand. As the founder, they serve as the public face and primary representative of their company. This includes their unique expertise, personal values, and belief systems, all of which are essential to the overall success and growth of the organisation. Within this model, they take on multiple roles such as a leader, visionary, and mentor, which drive the company’s ministerial mission forward.
To fully leverage the CEO model, they must accept their role as brand ambassador, the primary advocate and visionary leader of their brand. They must step confidently into the spotlight, sharing their unique insights and expertise while making decisions that impact the world around them. As they reach this stage, it’s time to move from running their business from behind the scenes to becoming the visible face and authentic voice of their company, inspiring others to expand the kingdom of God within their sphere of influence.
The ministry enterprise model combines business practices with a focus on ministry. Unlike traditional businesses that primarily focus on generating profits for their shareholders, a ministry enterprise prioritises its mission, striving to create both sustainable income and a positive impact within its sphere of influence.
This model functions similarly to a marketplace business by selling products or services; however, its primary purpose is as a ministry. The profits earned are intentionally directed to support and expand its ministerial mission, ensuring that financial gains serve a greater purpose. Essentially, profit is seen not as the ultimate goal but as a means of advancing God's kingdom and furthering the work of ministry beyond the church walls.
Think about how your skills, passions, and creative ideas can be used to build a ministry enterprise that generates income while providing impact. Start by having conversations with potential partners—whether local, regional, national, or global—about how to take a for-profit and turn it into a purpose-driven mission that glorifies God and benefits others.