Economist & Social Entrepreneur; Founder & President of the Chalmers Center at Covenant College; Author of "When Helping Hurts"

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Brian Fikkert Biography

Dr. Brian Fikkert is an economist, author, and social entrepreneur whose work has influenced how churches and organizations approach poverty alleviation. Fikkert serves as a professor of economics and is the founder and president of the Chalmers Center at Covenant College. He holds a doctorate in economics from Yale University, with a focus on international economics and economic development. Before joining Covenant College, Fikkert was an assistant professor of economics at the University of Maryland and a research fellow at the Center for Institutional Reform and the Informal Sector.

The Chalmers Center for Economic Development is a research and training institution dedicated to equipping churches and missionaries to address poverty through economic development and spiritual transformation. The center, funded by private contributions, operates on the Covenant College campus and is named after Thomas Chalmers, a 19th-century Scottish preacher, economist, and mathematician. Since its founding, the Chalmers Center has provided training to organizations and churches globally, supporting the development of sustainable poverty alleviation ministries. Fikkert has also served as a consultant to the World Bank, the Inter-American Development Bank, and the United States Agency for International Development, specializing in economic development and international economics.

Fikkert co-authored "When Helping Hurts" with Steve Corbett, a book that examines common approaches to poverty alleviation and their alignment with principles of human flourishing. The book draws on Fikkert's personal experiences, including his work with church communities in Uganda, and has contributed to shifts in how faith-based organizations address poverty.

Fikkert's additional co-authored works include "Helping Without Hurting in Short-Term Missions," "Helping Without Hurting in Church Benevolence," "From Dependence to Dignity: How to Alleviate Poverty Through Church-Centered Microfinance," "Practicing the King's Economy: Honoring Jesus in How We Work, Earn, Spend, Save, and Give," "Becoming Whole: Why the Opposite of Poverty Isn't the American Dream," and "A Field Guide to Becoming Whole: Principles for Poverty Alleviation Ministries." Through the Chalmers Center, Fikkert has supported the development of savings groups in the Majority World, enabling individuals in extreme poverty to achieve financial stability and access economic opportunities.

Fikkert is a frequent speaker at conferences, seminaries, and faith-based events, addressing topics such as poverty, economic development, and the intersection of faith and work. He has presented at the Association of Christian Economists Conference and has contributed to poverty alleviation efforts in both the United States and the Majority World. Fikkert's career integrates academic research, consulting, and practical engagement with faith-based economic development.

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Speaker profile last updated by AAE Talent Team on 10/28/2026.

Brian Fikkert Videos

Brian Fikkert Interview - Part 3 - True Poverty

Brian Fikkert Interview - Part 3 - True Poverty

. In the third part of his discussion Brian Fikkert delves into ... Interview with Brian Fikkert - Part 1 - Taking an Inward Look. ITEC ...

Serving Your Community - Brian Fikkert

Serving Your Community - Brian Fikkert

In this episode Drs. Darrell Bock and Brian Fikkert discuss alleviating poverty focusing on how best to help those in need and emphasizing.

A Conversation with Brian Fikkert, Economist (Part 1 of 2)

A Conversation with Brian Fikkert, Economist (Part 1 of 2)

What does it really mean to help the poor in ways that lead to lasting change? In this episode Dan Doriani sits down with Dr. Brian Fikkert.

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  • What topics does Brian Fikkert speak about?

    Brian Fikkert is a keynote speaker and industry expert whose speaking topics include Christian, Entrepreneurship, Faith & Religion, Faith & Religion, Music, Overcoming Adversity, Social Entrepreneurship
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Brian Fikkert is a keynote speaker and industry expert who speaks on a wide range of topics. The estimated speaking fee range to book Brian Fikkert for your event is available upon request. Brian Fikkert generally travels from and can be booked for (private) corporate events, personal appearances, keynote speeches, or other performances. Similar motivational celebrity speakers are Sherei Lopez Jackson, Bushra Amiwala, Eric Thomas, Damarqio Williams and James McBride. Contact All American Speakers for ratings, reviews, videos and information on scheduling Brian Fikkert for an upcoming live or virtual event.

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