Starting Small and Making It Big : An Entrepreneur

Bill Cummings never aspired to be a billionaire and never acknowledged he was one until long after it happened. That’s because it is not money that motivates him, but rather the immense enjoyment he gets from building and growing successful businesses. This fascinating autobiography shares not only how he got there, but also his singular dedication to giving back to the communities and institutions so vital to his success. In Massachusetts alone, the cash donations from Cummings entities to local charities already total more than $200 million. Through Bill’s unique voice, readers experience his achievements and adventures, as well as his setbacks and personal tragedies. For anyone studying business, building a business, or running a business, Bill’s journey also offers keen insights, cautionary observations, and the pioneering thinking that produced great prosperity and a multibillion-dollar enterprise. For everyone else, it offers a new and engrossing twist on the classic American success story. All proceeds from the sale of the book go directly to charity. This book has received praise from Melinda Gates, Dr. Paul Farmer and Ralph Nader. If shipping internationally OR ordering in bulk (16 or more hardcovers/26 or more paperbacks), call us at 781-935-8000. Bulk shipping is free for orders within the continental US.

My friend Bill writes that he rejects the phrase 'give until it hurts' because he and his wife, Joyce, think the better advice is to 'give until it feels good.' It's a fitting observation. After many conversations with Bill and Joyce, I've learned their perspective is not only compelling; it's contagious--and their warmth comes across on every page."
 
Melinda Gates, Co-Chair, Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation
 

"No business majors should conclude their studies without reading this memorable book. Nor should any humanitarian, committed to charity and structural justice.  What is most amazing in this orderly, incremental life of business, joy, and community spirit by Bill and his spouse, Joyce, is that you come away believing that 'the best is yet to come.'"
 
Ralph Nader, Esq., National political leader and author  
 

"Bill Cummings never stopped counting his blessings, and neither did his wife. Neither did they tire of sharing these blessings with a widening circle of beneficiaries--from the Boston area to Rwanda. This refreshing memoir reminds us that starting small and making it big is best done by doggedly pursuing values, not riches."
 
Paul Farmer,MD, PhD, Founder, Partners In Health
 

"My reactions to the book ran the gamut. I was engaged by the historical aspects, inspired and entertained by the personal stories, brought to tears by a tragic event, instructed in leadership, business and human nature--and profoundly grateful to be in a position to take it all in."
 
Deborah Kochevar, DVM, PhD, Dean, Tufts University
 

 
"Bill is a serial entrepreneur and an embodiment of the American Dream. His fascinating story is rich with lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs and for anyone interested in the role business can play in strengthening community and society."
 
Peter Drobac, MD, Director, Saïd Business School, Skoll Centre for Entrepreneurship, Oxford University