Social Entrepreneurship Incubator

I have been interested in social entrepreneurship for years. Social entrepreneurs start businesses that have a socially responsible mission. I just learned of a new business incubator in Philadelphia, PA, that is focused on helping social entrepreneur get started and grow. It's called GoodCompany Ventures. They have just issues a call for applications for entrepreneurs who need office space, mentoring, sources of capital and community.

Here's some information the sent me:

GoodCompany Ventures, a unique incubator for businesses with social impact that has just announced a "call for applications" for the summer 2009 cycle.

GoodCompany Ventures catalyzes start-ups with innovative solutions to big, unmet social needs. GoodCompany entrepreneurs get a great place to work, a community of like-minded entrepreneurs, and access to a network of capital sources and expert advisors. We champion models that offer investors both financial return and social benefit.

Entrepreneurs accepted into the program receive extensive training and mentoring over a nine-week period, followed by a venture funding fair. Unlike other incubators, we do not extract an equity commitment from entrepreneurs, but expect a commitment of time and effort toward building a community of social entrepreneurship.

This new program was founded by Resources for Human Development, Inc (RHD), an innovator in social finance with a successful track record in social enterprises; Murex Investments, a "double bottom line" equity fund backed by leading financial institutions; and leading entrepreneurs and executives such as:

· Garret Melby, Founder, Iolite Innovation Fund

· Dr. Shoshanna Loeb, Chief Scientist and Executive Director, Telcordia Technologies

· Sidney E. Amster, co-Founder and Partner, Phase II International; Clinical Professor, Temple University

GoodCompany Ventures is currently recruiting dynamic entrepreneurs in a variety of industries, with particular interest in clean-technology, education, technology and other industries with integral social impact. The application is open until May 15, 2009, with a rolling admissions policy. The first acceptances will go out on May 1st.