These convictions have solidified in our three-year relationship with Springboard Innovation, a non-profit based in Portland, OR. Springboard has four interrelated initiatives, one of which is solely dedicated to getting innovative ideas from concept and venture plan to reality and profitable success.

ChangeXchange, Springboard Innovation’s new online initiative, introduces emerging and proven social ventures to community members and funding organizations alike to allow them to help fill the biggest gap of innovation—seed funding. It also provides a pathway for citizens who want to make a difference. By exploring project profiles, users then “invest” in their chosen project. Their return? Social profit.

ChangeXchange unites the core values of Springboard Innovation- sustainability, innovation, and community - and provides a true springboard for launchers of social innovation. The idea is to provide seed funding only to nonprofit organizations that have integrated sustaining strategies into their business plans, building a new kind of change organization that won’t have to spend its time writing grants to make a difference. It can stay focused on mission.

This post was written by one of our readers, Patrick Regan.
ChangeXchange allows anyone, regardless of financial or social background, to become an investor in positive social change. This means that you can be a key part of the most cutting edge and innovative solutions to problems in your own community! Micro-philanthropy is now king.