Our Story

As a business leader, Acumen founder, Drew Hiss, had the vision to build an “impactful and region-wide” community of business owners and CEOs that were committed to a higher standard of excellence, influence, and impact in their businesses.

He wanted to build something that could become the gold standard for how business platforms should be built and operated. One where participating organizations would be among the top-performing companies in the region for growth, culture, and excellence. This vision took root and began to grow near the end of 2015.

In early 2016, Drew connected with co-founder, Dan Cooper, over coffee and discovered they had common DNA. Different backgrounds, companies, and industries, but each keenly aware of the challenges and advantages that come with owning and running a business, including isolation, influence, and the desire to make an impact.

There were times in their respective businesses when they were consumed by inspiring and motivating others, leaving little energy or time to devote to unplanned business or life issues. Worse yet, their individual dreams of making a lasting impact beyond the bottom line were on constant hold. They realized their businesses were running them.

Other times, they were hit with problems so big or so complex, they didn’t know where to turn or what steps to take.