Forbes once characterized the social enterprise as “a new paradigm for business,” but the movement isn’t really new. (Goodwill, for instance, launched in 1902.) But cause-driven businesses have gained considerable momentum over the past few years, particularly in the startup realm.
In Cincinnati, one organization is focused on helping entrepreneurs build and scale companies that have a social purpose. Flywheel, which bills itself as a “social accelerator hub,” provides tools, resources, and connections for social entrepreneurs, as well as assembling a network of impact investors. One of its programs, Elevator, is a cohort-model accelerator that helps social startups develop a viable business model and seek funding.