The Ownership Economy Episode 083 — Beyond Returns: Gigi Danziger & Albert Wenger on Capital for Stewardship AND Growth
Aug 5, 2025
Gigi Danziger, co-founder of Eutopia Holdings, and Albert Wenger, partner at Union Square Ventures, dive into innovative steward ownership models aimed at reversing extractive capital trends. They discuss diverse projects in the Hudson Valley, like a basic income pilot and sustainable farms, emphasizing community engagement and environmental sustainability. The duo highlights challenges such as community distrust while envisioning a future where ownership evolves with AI to ensure equitable wealth distribution, aiming for a world where everyone can thrive.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Hudson Valley Community Projects
- They launched a basic income pilot in Hudson with 128 people receiving $500 monthly for five years.
- Other initiatives include a climate action farm, affordable housing, and a community learning hub.
Extractive Capital and Inequality
- Capital has become increasingly extractive over decades, reducing the share of economic growth going to labor.
- The rise of AI and robotics may further concentrate gains to capital owners, worsening inequality unless addressed.
Build Trust Through Education
- Educate your community about steward ownership to build trust and collaboration.
- Work together with stakeholders to create ownership models that serve everyone.
