the background context.

What started as a lone photographer’s trip to Sudan to teach photography to children turned into a party that showcased the children’s photos inside a cramped New York City apartment. And when people started buying those photos, the initial idea was developed. That maybe those photos, already powerful in their own right as the voice of marginalized children, could be the basis for supporting the valiant efforts of on-the-ground nonprofits striving to make a difference. And so, the 100cameras mission was officially launched.

the impact of dollars raised.

At the most concrete level, we measure dollars raised for our partners, and the impact of those dollars varies by the need of each community. For example, in Cuba we are committing to help raise $100,000 for their community center in the greater Havana area that will provide educational service programs, medical care, disaster relief, material goods, sports programs and entrepreneurial training for small businesses. Whereas in Sudan, 100cameras funds are meeting very basic human needs such as food, malaria medicine, and facility maintenance.

The 100cameras model relies on our partner organizations to provide sustainable solutions within their targeted communities. We have a partner application process that helps us to choose efficient, effective, and sustainable partners who produce measurable results within their communities. We recognize that, as local community members, our partners know their greatest need better than we do, and we commit to supporting their individual efforts.

the market analysis.

The mission of 100cameras is to help build a path towards dignity. We give 100% of the money earned from the children’s photography back to their local organization so that it can be used to create opportunities. These then breed more opportunities for both the individual and the community.

Like most charitable organizations, 100cameras seeks to efficiently transform revenue streams into increased welfare for those in need. There are currently 1 billion children living in poverty worldwide.  Additional exposure and funding is required to support them and the local organizations committed to ending this cycle of poverty. Even in 2008, a year characterized by economic difficulties, charitable giving within the US alone exceeded $300 billion. 100cameras seeks to reach this market through targeting socially conscious individuals of all income levels as potential supporters.  In addition to relying on significant grants and donations, 100cameras sells an infinitely reproducible product to capture the interest of people who not only appreciate art, but are able to contribute relatively small donations to help overcome injustice. The price of our photography allows both small and large contributions, encouraging participation from supporters of all ages, careers, and demographics.

To reach this market, 100cameras develops a network of supporters through marketing and PR efforts. In the past two years, this has included television appearances on NBC and CBS affiliates, press coverage in Relevant Magazine, Daily Candy and AOL.com and social media outlets including Facebook and Twitter.  Through building relationships with our corporate event sponsors such as Whole Foods, Samsung and Adorama, our brand continues to be spread throughout other mediums including corporate blogs, newsletters, social networks and publications. In addition, 100cameras has partnered with schools to create school-wide campaign fundraisers. We are also currently pursuing venues nationwide to install the photography owned by 100cameras. Our competitors rely on similar strategies to reach their target market, but it is unknown whether or not they use paid fundraisers to extend their reach.

While there are many organizations today fending for the rights of children around the world, the scale of injustice makes it impossible for any single organization to successfully advocate for every child. As long as injustice continues, there is opportunity for individuals and organizations like ours to make a difference.

the business model.

100cameras has four main sources of income:

●       Photography sales. Our photos are sold in person through gallery shows hosted across the country and online at www.100cameras.org. Prices range from $25 to $350 depending on the size and quality of the print. 100% of the revenue from the sale of children’s photography is given back to our partner organizations. In addition to the sale of the children’s photography, we sell photographs taken by 100cameras staff at each project location.  The revenue generated from the sale of staff photography is used to cover operational costs that are not funded through other sources.

●      Individual Donations. Thus far, we have developed a supporter base through friends, family, churches, schools, and the art community. These supporters believe in our vision and are committed to the long-term development of the 100cameras mission.

●      Merchandise Sales. Merchandise includes any item labeled with the 100cameras logo or brand.  Currently, we are selling 100cameras T-shirts and greeting cards through partnerships with screen printers who offer us a reduced rate so that all profits go towards 100cameras.

●      Grants. We are pursuing Foundation, Corporate and Government Grant Solicitations for possible funding opportunities in the future.

the committment. 

We are committed to funding all of our operations through donations, merchandise sales, and grants in order to return 100% of the children’s photography sales back to our partner organizations. We believe this model is best in that it provides clarity to our donors and supports local individuals and organizations who are already actively involved in their communities.

100cameras launched as a grassroots movement with the goal of reaching hearts and minds through photography. We connect the solution to the need by giving children a creative platform to share their lives from their own perspective.

We have the big ideas and the proven track record—we just need a full-time employee to broaden our impact. And we need your help to make that happen. Join us.