Microphilathropy is an approach to philanthropy based on smaller, more direct interaction between those who are in need and those who can give. Platforms such as Kiva, DonorsChoose and Facebook Causes have the ability to aggregate thousands of relatively small donations to make a big difference.
I had the honour of presenting at Social Venture Partners Toronto's panel discussion on, "How Microphilanthropy Is Changing Giving".
Wednesday's Federal Government Throne Speech contained a few paragraphs of 'social innovation' language for the first time. This is a welcome political blessing to the social entrepreneurs inside and outside government.
As I read the text I note an acknowledgment of: Canadian communities as incubators of creativity; the importance of working across sectors and boundaries; reducing red tape so that government can support local creativity; and providing expertise to scale up good ideas. Finally, the Throne Speech ends with a commitment to partner with innovative charities and forward thinking businesses to tackle social problems.
For many of you who read this blog, the Social Capital Partners story will be familiar to you. On Wednesday, I had the opportunity to hear Bill Young speak, and once again I was inspired, and I thought - this is a story worth repeating.
Bill Young came into a lot of money at the time of the technology stock frenzy, and he used it to found Social Capital Partners in 2001. He wanted to figure out the answer to the question “is there a way to harness market forces to do social good?”
It’s true what they say; new projects are daunting, anxiety-provoking and pull-your-hair-out-exhausting. But here’s another truism: they’re as thrilling as it comes. Each new initiative involves the setting of fresh expectations, self-prescribed milestones and goals. And let’s not forget those dreams. Launching an enterprise is any dreamcatcher’s inspirational fodder.
As founders of Canada’s first publication for and about social enterprise and entrepreneurship, we’re not unlike any other social entrepreneur in that we’re dreaming big. And we hope you are too.
The Social Investment Organization (SIO) is pleased to announce the 2010 publication of Your Guide to Socially Responsible Mutual Fund Companies in Canada, a new reference tool for investment advisors and investors.
"The Guide offers an accessible overview of each company’s profile, SRI products and services and investment philosophy," said Eugene Ellmen, Executive Director of the Social Investment Organization. "Investors can also research company websites, where additional information will be found."
Home | Enterprises | Investors | Enablers | Blog | Knowledge Centre | Events | About | More:
© 2009 SocialFinance.ca | Design and Development by The Blog Studio
Stacey Corriveau on Legislative Innovations – Towards a Canada Based on Choice
Mar 16, 2010