The conference in BC last week was inspiring for so many reasons. The keynotes were good, the seminars educational, and the conversations… they were incredible.

As my plane headed east from YVR I kept coming back to the thought that social enterprises are going to change the world.

The Social Enterprise Alliance defines social enterprise as: “an organization or venture that advances its social mission through entrepreneurial earned income strategies.”

A simple realization that Mark and I had at the conference was that the difference between a social enterprise and an enterprise that’s socially conscious is small (and getting smaller). In this vein I like Wikipedia’s definition:

“Social enterprises are organizations which trade in goods or services, and link that trade to a social mission. The need to deliver on financial, social and environmental performance targets is often referred to as having a triple bottom line.”

Mark and I went to the conference filled with thoughts and ideas on how to create change in society. We left with validated thoughts, a common language, a better understanding, and inspiration from what others have done.

I understand that what’s happening in other countries, the UK & US especially, is remarkable. However, I was impressed to see the wonderful things happening in Vancouver with respect to social enterprise.

Groups like Enterprising Non-Profits, BCT Social Venture Partners, and others are doing some incredible things to support the blossoming community. However, the greatest benefit to BC’s SE community appears to come from the support of Vancity.

The conference was an inspiring experience. Look for some future initiatives in the Golden Horseshoe region inspired by the conversations and learnings from the conference.

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Social enterprise is a growing trend, and one that will hopefully continue to develop and permeate society. Look for a new generation of social entrepreneurs to create great meaning and change. The Skoll Foundation has a great piece on “What is a Social Entrepreneur?“:

“Social entrepreneurs tap into vast reserves of ambition, creativity and resourcefulness in relentless pursuit of hard, measurable results. Social entrepreneurs seek to grow more than just profits. Motivated by altruism and a profound desire to promote the growth of equitable civil societies, social entrepreneurs pioneer innovative, effective, sustainable approaches to meet the needs of the marginalized, the disadvantaged and the disenfranchised.”

I’m a social entrepreneur. I want to create change. If you aren’t, ask yourself why not?

I was inspired by another social entrepreneur at the conference, Jason Mogus. I didn’t get an opportunity to meet him, but maybe next time I’m in Vancouver I will. He’s doing some great things and it was clear in hearing him speak that we share similar views on social enterprises.

My friend Eric is another social entrepreneur who’s inspiring. He’s creating something that’s very cool that will help create positive change. Stay tuned.
I realized I didn’t elaborate on exactly why I believe social enterprises will create so much positive change, but this post should serve as an introduction to the topic for future discussions.

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