The way we do business is constantly adapting to the evolving values of our society. New generations are asking the question, “How can I make my life’s work both meaningful and financially successful?” Although traditional perspectives have taught us that doing what you love and making a living are mutually exclusive, perspectives are changing and new trends are emerging in how we do business and solve problems. There is a new wave of change-makers on the scene who are making impactful work their life’s mission…these innovators are called Social Entrepreneurs.
Social entrepreneurship is the art of recognizing a social problem and creating a profitable venture that seeks to address social, environmental or cultural issues. Where governments, businesses and non-profits may fall short to tackle our systemic problems, social entrepreneurs are the change agents that devise new solutions or seize opportunities missed by others. They develop innovative market-based solutions to change society for the better.
Like most entrepreneurs, social entrepreneurs are sparked by deep passion. They are not driven by being known as a “social entrepreneur,” rather the lure of this profession is the “intimacy of problem solving,” according to Bank Benitz of the Unreasonable Institute. When you insert yourself into a situation and deeply feel the pain, you see the world through a different lens. This empathy can then be translated to an intimate desire to create change.
Another change in business that has emerged alongside social entrepreneurism are dynamic work spaces that break the mold of a traditional office. Innovators crave community and a place where collaboration and shared passion surrounds them. Coworking spaces are popping up all around the world, and Boulder’s bustling start-up scene is the perfect platform for such spaces. HUB Boulder is leading the way in this sector by building a community of change-makers and impact driven social entrepreneurs. The HUB has elevated the coworking model by making impact a key focus and has transformed a coworking space into a collaborative incubator for some of the best social entrepreneurs in the community. HUB Boulder’s community is over 250 strong and still growing. What inspires these agents of change? HUB’s members talk about their passions, their life’s work and what inspires them.
“The entrepreneurial path allows me to create my own reality. For me, that includes meaningful work, adventure and global connectedness.” Jonathan Osgood of TACT L3C.
“What’s the point of giving your life to something that you don’t believe. When you’re working on something you believe in that’s a reason to get out of bed in the morning. “ –Joseph DiMasi of BrightSpace Technologies
“When I die I don’t want to look back with any regrets. With that perspective I want my life to have meaning, in all parts of my day. So my work has to have meaning. To be able to build a decent living and create positive change gives me that. Impact entrepreneurship is a more sustainable approach to business. Philanthropy is a broken model.” –Stevan Simach of TACT L3C.
I co-founded ReWork because I believe has highest point of leverage for change in our current system. I could work on one pain point, or with ReWork train the future work force to help all businesses. When you feel like your work is tied to something bigger than just self-interest it gives you a greater purpose. It creates stronger motivation, happier people, more productivity, and more fulfillments in every day. “ – Evan Walden of ReWork
In a world where industrialization and empty profit are quickly losing stature, inspiration to re-imagine business is abundant. Social entrepreneurialism is seeking to establish a new norm of incorporating environmental, economic and social awareness into business models. These trail blazers are also proving that doing meaningful work and making a good living at the same time can be achieved, which is great news for those who dream of doing good and are on the path towards becoming social entrepreneurs. For those of you that are looking for a community to provide you with support and inspiration in your impact driven ventures, come discover HUB Boulder, become a member and plug in to their community!