The Business of Blessing

The Business of Blessing

“We give through the business,” Ian says, “and as we’ve given, we’ve seen God bless it beyond our imagination.”

“We give through the business,” Ian says, “and as we’ve given, we’ve seen God bless it beyond our imagination.”

Ian and Helene Finlayson have always had a heart for the poor. When Ian set up Practical Solutions International (PSI Ltd), it was never just about profit. Their mission is to “make a practical impact in the UK and developing countries through food safety, sustainability and ethical practices.”

The global food industry faces many issues – labour exploitation, environmental harm, and waste.  In Burundi, these issues are highlighted, with 1 in 2 children suffering from malnutrition, the challenge of simply feeding the population is desperately urgent.

With over sixteen years at Sainsbury’s and experience on the Fairtrade Standards Committee, Ian brings a wealth of knowledge to these issues. Through PSI Ltd, they advise major retailers, seeking to ensure food is safe, nutritious and produced with the people and the environment in mind. 

Ian and Helene first came across GLO over twenty years ago when they heard Simon Guillebaud speak.  They were particularly inspired by how GLO empowers Burundian leaders to reach the poorest and most vulnerable, which appealed to their own passions. So, in addition to their ethical business operations, they have been able to financially support GLO’s transformative work, with their faith informing their attitude to generosity. “We give through the business,” Ian says, “and as we’ve given, we’ve seen God bless it beyond our imagination.”

At GLO, we believe business can be a powerful tool for good. Many of our Partners use microloans to help people, often in the food sector, to set up in business. When Partners set up these groups, they offer training to encourage responsible and ethical operation, which is exactly the heart that PSI is trying to grow.

Ian encourages other business owners to consider how they can be a force for good. “Think about how your business has been blessed and how God has placed you in this position to be a blessing to others.”


We’re deeply grateful for Ian, Helene, and others like them who are using their business as a means to bring hope and change to Burundi and beyond. If your business or church would be interested in partnering with GLO, we would love to discuss it with you, so please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

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