Insights
The latest research insights and observations from the frontlines of ecosystem building for social change. A one-person think-tank.
Knowing what I know now (Allyship pt. 1)
In entrepreneurial ecosystem circles, we have talked about the importance of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) for several years. In that sense, I consider myself fortunate to have been around empathetic and outspoken changemakers who have always stood up for what’s right even when I was unable to fully comprehend the extent to which it […]
Rooted in WHY (Power of Purpose pt. 2)
In my conversations over the years, social entrepreneurs, organizational leaders and some self-employed service providers (advisors and consultants) have shared with me – sworn to absolute secrecy – that they are secretly thinking about what’s next for them. I often get the sense that social entrepreneurs in particular feel guilty about wanting to experience new […]
Making it through Covid19. Advice from an Impact Investor
This guest post was written by Social Venturer Ann-Christin Kortenbrede and originally published on The Social Business. Working with numerous portfolio and pipeline companies in the past few weeks has given me valuable insights into how companies and investors first reacted to the current crisis and then adjusted their medium-term strategies accordingly. In this blog […]
Ecosystem builders as 2nd responders
Co-authored by Michelle Arevalo-Carpenter & Anika Horn For several years now, we both have actively supported entrepreneurial ecosystems in our respective regions as what is referred to as ecosystem builders. According to the Kauffman Foundation “An ecosystem that allows for the fast flow of talent, information, and resources helps entrepreneurs quickly find what they need […]
Your Unfair Advantage
The more I talk to entrepreneurial ecosystem builders for social change (35 and counting), the more I learn about the unique world views and skillsets that make these people put the needs of purpose-driven founders before their own. What I notice at the same time is that they often are not even aware of just […]
Community over competition: An ecosystem builder’s approach
For a few years now, I have been deeply entrenched in the world of entrepreneurial ecosystem building. You’ll find me in seventh heaven when I get to spend time with like-minded peers whose eyes brighten up when I casually sprinkle the words ecosystem building into a conversation! And then there’s the other 99% whose faces […]
