It’s About Precedence

02Apr09

A collection of sources and thoughts of new initiatives in this field of social venture capital and investments:

The Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) focuses on health, education, culture, rural development , institution-building and the promotion of economic development. It is dedicated to improving living conditions and opportunities for the poor, without regard to their faith, origin or gender.

The network is structured with a for-profit arm that funds many of its non-profit and social programs. Well established and respected across borders.

2) The Brainstorm Prize – funded by Legatum Foundation $1M prize to tackle poverty through technology. Annual prize – long term and targeted at helping product development.

3) It fun to realize we’re not the only ones who are asking “Why Not (?)” questions. Why not have a venture arm? Google asks.

Google Ventures – launched Mar. 31, 2009

Google FAQ: “First and foremost, we’re looking for entrepreneurs who are tackling problems in creative and innovative ways. As a venture fund, however, we’re also looking for investments with the potential for significant financial return.” – Now, isn’t that the holy grail?