Welcome
SOCIAL ENTERPRISE CHICAGO: Building Chicago's Social Enterprise Ecosystem
Growing Mission-Driven Ventures
Our Mission
Social Enterprise Chicago (SocEntChi) serves as a convener, collaborator, and catalyst for the Chicago social enterprise community. It empowers for-profit, nonprofit, and L3C ventures that are applying earned-revenue strategies to drive social innovation and foster positive social, economic, and environmental change.
Our Unique Value Proposition
Connecting Chicago's Social Enterprise Ecosystem
Social Enterprise Chicago is at the forefront of connecting Chicago's social enterprise ecosystem, which includes entrepreneurs, funders, and policymakers. The organization is dedicated to building the essential infrastructure that this vibrant ecosystem requires, such as capital readiness support, coordinated funding pathways, and a strong policy voice.
Recognized by Idealist as a key hub within this network, SocEntChi is frequently enlisted by partners like the Chicago Innovation Awards and the Cook County Commission on Social Innovation to enhance ecosystem outreach. Through years of dedicated convening, SocEntChi is now providing the connective infrastructure that the Chicago social enterprise community needs to thrive in social innovation, including pathways for L3Cs and other impactful ventures.
SocEntChi Impact Exchange 2026
On April 22, 2026, Social Enterprise Chicago and Entrenuity convened leaders from across Chicago's social enterprise, investment, and policy communities to identify priorities for a stronger, more sustainable impact economy.
The conversation explored technological equity and AI, leadership, business-model innovation, public policy, and impact investing.
The resulting report captures key insights and opportunities for collaboration. SocEntChi invites organizations, experts, and community partners to explore the findings and help advance the work.
Share Your Expertise. Join the Conversation. Advance the Work
Let’s Build Chicago’s Impact Economy Together.
A thriving social enterprise ecosystem depends on people and organizations willing to contribute their knowledge, relationships, resources, and support. Your contribution helps expand opportunities, build capacity, and fuel community‑driven impact. Whether you volunteer, donate, sponsor, or share your skills, you play a vital role in creating a more inclusive and innovative Chicago. Join us in making meaningful change.
