WHAT WE DO
Growing Mission-Driven Ventures
At Social Enterprise Chicago, we envision a world where social equity opportunities and economic opportunity are accessible to all. Our mission is to activate capital, inspire leadership, and foster community development initiatives that transform neighborhoods for generations to come.
Convene the Chicago social-enterprise ecosystem
As a convener, collaborator, and catalyst, Social Enterprise Chicago plays a pivotal role in the landscape of Chicago social enterprise. By leveraging its thought leadership, the organization empowers for-profit, nonprofit, and hybrid ventures in the Chicago area that utilize earned-revenue strategies to drive positive social change. This work encompasses various activities, including co-hosting events, delivering workshops, publishing content, advancing social policy, and providing vital information on funding and social equity opportunities within community development initiatives.
Build capacity through learning, coaching, and partner programs
SocEntChi partners with various organizations that share the vision of advancing social enterprise initiatives throughout the Chicago area and beyond. By collaborating with colleges and community partners, we support Chicago social enterprise efforts, connecting organizations, universities, and technical experts to foster community development initiatives. Our goal is to build shared infrastructures and eliminate organizational isolation while enhancing social equity opportunities without duplicating existing groups.
Connect ventures to resources, visibility, and capital pathways
Social Enterprise Chicago is committed to advancing sustainable Chicago social enterprises that promote community development initiatives. Our goal is to encourage social equity opportunities through technological equity, leadership development, and policy advocacy, thereby enhancing Chicago's impact economy. We focus on creating enduring social change by effectively connecting stakeholders and mobilizing resources.