Is it really possible to do well by doing good? The meteoric rise of social entrepreneurship in America, Europe and the developing world has breathed new life into the elusive goal of running a financially successful organization that uses business principles to contribute to the public good. Although the sector has been growing for over twenty-five years, social entrepreneurship has only recently become abuzz word in financial circles. At Echoing Green, the non profit organization where I work, our mission is to identify and support emerging social entrepreneurs. When I mention the concept to motivated young people today, I am more likely to be met with an “ah-ha!” look of recognition and excitement then with a confused stare. Indeed, more and more college and graduate students are enrolling in courses on social entrepreneurship and developing their own socially responsible organization.

Read more