Throughout history, entrepreneurs have made their communities stronger, more vibrant places to life. From early industrialists like Andrew Carnegie, who built the nation’s system of public libraries, to Bill Gates, who is revolutionizing the delivery of health care in impoverished nations, entrepreneurs have been at the front line of solving complex social problems. And Utah is no different. Many of our most successful entrepreneurs grew their businesses as they strengthened their communities.
We don’t think you need to have the bank account of a Carnegie or Gates to change the world. Donations alone seldom permanently addresses complex social problems – real progress is only made when we bring our best thinking to the issues facing our community.
Some of Utah’s best known entrepreneurs are leading an effort to build a community of ‘enlightened entrepreneurs’ committed to enhancing the quality of life in Utah through community engagement, while building their networks. How?
- Serve as a mentor to a social enterprise - Utah's nonprofits need your help to build revenue generating businesses that will employ the people they serve and reduce their dependence on annual donations. Serve as a speed mentor - Give 90 minutes of your time to help nonprofits think in new ways about the challenges facing their businesses
- Fund the Social Enterprise Investment Fund - Help create a revolving pool of assets to invest in for profit and not for profit businesses that are getting at the root causes of social issues.
- Donate options in your company - Donating options is a tax-smart way to create a tradition of philanthropy right from the start.
- Start a Corporate Advised Fund - Most corporate philanthropy programs have two primary goals. First, to impact the community or communities the company serves. Second, to raise awareness and provide important exposure for the company. We can help you meet these objectives through highly individualized philanthropic support services.
Becoming an 'Enlightened Entrepreneur' is easy and it is a powerful way to give back to the state that is helping you build your business.
