Project Teaser: Ben Davidson introduces Shark Pond: Entrepreneurship, Education, and Environmental Action
Ben Nelson, 2026-27 President of the Global Service e-club, Rotary District 5400, introduces Shark Pond, a virtual Rotary service project that combines entrepreneurship with practical environmental and community solutions. Inspired by Shark Tank—but designed to be friendly, collaborative, and fun—Shark Pond gives aspiring entrepreneurs in underserved African communities an opportunity to develop and pitch environmentally focused business ideas.
Ben also previews upcoming entrepreneur training that will be part of a Rotary International Global Grant in Malawi. The project will train and certify local solar installation entrepreneurs to install solar systems, helping build local expertise while expanding access to renewable energy.
Another component will train and support local seamstresses in producing school uniforms for girls that can expand as they grow, as well as reusable sanitary pads. These locally made products are designed to help girls remain in school while reducing waste and creating opportunities for local entrepreneurs. The project connects two important approaches to addressing climate change—expanding solar energy and supporting girls’ education—with sustainable economic development.
For Rotary leaders looking for service projects that bring together environmental sustainability, entrepreneurship, education, and community-led solutions, Ben’s Project Teaser offers ideas worth exploring and potentially bringing to their own clubs.
Presented September 17, 2026.
Watch the Project Teaser recording: [link]
Project Resources: Global Service eClub
Ben Nelson, Vice President of Human Resources and Training at Idaho Central Credit Union and a District 5400 Rotary Club president, introduces Shark Pond, a virtual Rotary service project that combines entrepreneurship with practical environmental and community solutions. Inspired by Shark Tank—but designed to be friendly, collaborative, and fun—Shark Pond gives aspiring entrepreneurs in underserved African communities an opportunity to develop and pitch environmentally focused business ideas.
Ben also previews upcoming entrepreneur training that will be part of a Rotary International Global Grant in Malawi. The project will train and certify local solar installation entrepreneurs to install solar systems, helping build local expertise while expanding access to renewable energy.
Another component will train and support local seamstresses in producing school uniforms for girls that can expand as they grow, as well as reusable sanitary pads. These locally made products are designed to help girls remain in school while reducing waste and creating opportunities for local entrepreneurs. The project connects two important approaches to addressing climate change—expanding solar energy and supporting girls’ education—with sustainable economic development.
For Rotary leaders looking for service projects that bring together environmental sustainability, entrepreneurship, education, and community-led solutions, Ben’s Project Teaser offers ideas worth exploring and potentially bringing to their own clubs.
Presented September 17, 2026.
Watch the Project Teaser recording: [link]
Project Resources: Global Service eClub
