Social Enterprise For The Win

I’m inspired by just about any nonprofit that creates a for-profit business as an income stream and as an employment hub for their organization. The concept isn’t new as nonprofits have been doing this for a long time. However, as the economy has tightened over the past few years more are being forced to consider these ventures in order to keep their doors open to serve their clients. Social entrepreneurship is taking off. 

Park Center in Fort Wayne has done just that by starting a box lunch catering franchise called Apple Spice Junction. This franchise is currently putting around 8 of their clients in part-time and full-time employment while generating income for the programs they run. They are currently serving about 20,000 box lunches a month and desire to get up to around 80,000 lunches each month. If they met their goal it would result into about 20 positions for their clients. 

                 

I’ve had their lunches and can attest to their quality. As a nonprofit leader that is always looking at innovative ways to generate donations and income to carry out our mission, I highly recommend giving these guys a shot for your next lunch meeting. 

These types of initiatives are succeeding right now because of the social impact they’re incorporating into their business model. More and more people are being encouraged to make responsible business purchases in every area, including things like this.

If your business hasn’t considered supporting a nonprofit/cause with a portion of your profit, now is the time. It could be the differentiator between you and your competition. 

What other social enterprises in Fort Wayne have you seen that have impressed you? What for-profit organizations do you know that have significant nonprofit partnerships?