Whenever anyone wants to try something new, something big and bold, no matter what the field; science, education, business and yes, even philanthropy, once there is even a glimmer of possible future success, those people are often referred to as “pioneers”, “cutting edge thinkers” and to put an even more marketable name on it, “change agent”.  These two little words seem to sum up the growing number of people trying to institute profound change and implement new thought. In pursuit of a new society.

So it has been said of this new wave of philanthropists who populate the rolls of Social Venture Partners, of which BC Social Venture Partners (BC SVP) is one; the only one of its kind in British Columbia, only one of three in Canada, and one of a select network of 24 in Canada, Japan and the United States.  Our collective mission (though we may use different descriptors) is the same.  The Partners combine the Power of Business with their Passion for Giving.  They bring business acumen along with financial resources to assist in building the capacity of nonprofit organizations in their communities.  These nonprofits are willing partners is this philanthropic adventure.  Grants are not made without the understanding and acceptance on the part of the nonprofit that it, the grant is both monetary and participatory.

Ultimately, the focus of BC SVP involvement is on sustainability, social innovation and the role that philanthropists play in that area. Our Partners look for the unique, the groundbreaking, the untried.  But at the same time, they want to see sound business plans, attainable goals, planning for the future, and a commitment to community.

In this blog, we will hone in on social innovation, on those pioneers and change agents that are creating different models of being, of giving, of doing business – innovations that will have lasting effects on society.  BC SVP invites you to come along for the ride.  Share with us your ideas, ask questions, tell us a story, make a comment, challenge the thinking, suggest reading material and generally, shake up the way we shape society.

Welcome to Change Agency