Trailblazing Social Entrepreneurs

A few entrepreneurs have found success in starting a business that identifies and fills societal needs in areas such as nutrition, poverty, literacy or helping improve our environment. Can you think of areas people are in need?

The blending of savvy business skills and helping others is not a new practice. There was a time when giving to the poor was encouraged and considered a holy merit, serving dual purposes in rewarding one’s spiritual state while simultaneously, relieving want. A practice still respected by some and despised by others.

Some may view this as profiting upon the misery of others yet it is the miserable who benefit the most from the giving, hard work and conscientious efforts of these social entrepreneurs. How do you feel when you know a part of your dollar goes toward helping improve lives of others in greater need? I would consider unfair wages to the poor yet enjoying great profits, as the one benefitting upon the misery of others.

The social entrepreneur is gaining popular support from the public and other private business owners that are interested in helping to alleviate problems in our own society and abroad. Success is measured upon the effects of developing a positive social change and their own profits or returns. Not all social entrepreneurs are operated by government, non-profit corporations or other private sectors but can be found working with these supporting bodies.

Six successful social entrepreneur programs that are succeeding with their endeavors are as follows;

Better World Books , a for-profit social enterprise that collects and sells books with proceeds going towards supporting literacy programs for those in need.

Academic Earth, provides free college and university video lectures in higher education from participating educational institutions.

Ice Stone, recycle and reuse glass in home decor products.

Innova Materials, sell anti-microbial products for private industry and use proceeds towards developing water purification systems for those in need.

Revolution Foods, nutritious lunches for schools in low-income areas of San Francisco and Los Angeles.

Craft Network, craft artists from poorer nations are introduced to retailers in industrialized countries.

A few businesses can be created from watching the world around us and learning to identify needs that are not being met. Once we find a area of interest– develop a solution – present a business plan and eventually open our doors for business and others will come along to offer their assistance or join forces. Not everybody is a philanthropist but these businesses are enjoying success and recognition by larger business. Plus they are providing employment for themselves, others and a benefit for those who have none. Who wouldn’t enjoy the rewards of being part of bringing a positive social change to others?

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