This Week in Social Entrepreneurship

In our “This Week in Social Entrepreneurship” series, each Friday we will feature the top stories in Social Entrepreneurship for the week that we find to be noteworthy, novel, and thought-provoking. What are your favorite stories this week in Social Entrepreneurship? Let’s start a discussion!

Are you leading positive change in your community? Are you between the ages of 18 and 29 and the founder or leader of a social change project or organization? The 2012 YouthActionNet Global Fellowship is looking for exceptional social entrepreneurs just like you—20 of them to be exact—to participate in a year-long program that includes a seven day leadership retreat, skills training in communications, media outreach, presenting, and new media technologies, and a membership in the YouthActionNet global network of fellows. YouthActionNet Fellows from previous years include YaYa Education Trust (2010), The Yonso Project (2010), and Tanzania Youth Environmental Network (2011). The application deadline is March 12 so if you are interested in becoming part of this prestigious network of social change projects, consider applying today.
Investors’ Circle, a network of 150 angel investors, venture capitalists, foundations, and family offices, is looking for early-stage organizations that address significant social or environmental issues to participate in its Spring Venture Fair. Upon submitting an application, your company will be considered for an opportunity to present at the Venture Fair at the Hotel Monaco in San Francisco on April 22-24. If you are interested—jump on this opportunity quickly because the deadline is today.
Hub Ventures, “a startup accelerator for entrepreneurs building a better world”, can help you build and launch your world-changing venture. As part of a 12-week cohort program, you will collaborate with peers, attend workshops, and receive mentorships with highly successful entrepreneurs. The deadline for the Spring 2012 cohort is March 5.
Nominations have opened for the 2012 PopTech Social Innovation Fellows Program. PopTech is looking for individuals working on “highly disruptive” innovations, have 3-5 years experience, and are in organizations that are positioned to grow. They will participate in a program that fosters their potential to create sustainable impact and gain access to a network of alumni and mentors. Nominations must be placed by April 3.
As many of you may already know, Echoing Green announced its semifinalists for the 2012 Echoing Green Fellowship and we are excited to announce that three ventures with successful campaigns on StartSomeGood made the cut! One Degree is connecting students and families in low income neighborhoods to critical life resources. Check out our interview with One Degree founder Rey Faustino back in December. Kushiri is an online platform where consultants can volunteer their time and expertise to advise NGOs and enterprises in the developing world. the [blank] canvas focuses on stimulating the inner artist that is present in everyone by bringing people of all ages together to express their creativity and, as a result, enhance the community in which they live. We are so, so proud of One Degree, Kushiri, and the [blank] canvas and wish them all the best of luck in the next round. Way to StartSomeGood, guys!

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