Do good smarter
Of course, a computer algorithm can’t tell the whole story. To provide some balance to our other list, we asked IBM inventor Rick Hamilton, who happens to call Charlottesville home when he’s not globe-trotting as an international innovation consultant, for his take on the most promising local entrepreneurial endeavors. He agreed, but he added a twist. Read on for his take.
“Obviously, entrepreneurs invest time and resources, and take risks, to build businesses. But these businesses don’t have to be solely focused on profit,” Hamilton said. “I operate in the conventional ‘for profit’ world, but some of the more interesting entrepreneurial ventures in Charlottesville are either not-for-profit, or put profit alongside positive social impact. I’m particularly intrigued by the work being done by these local entrepreneurs:
Pete Myers and Environmental Health Sciences
“They’re based here in Charlottesville, but have impacts at the local, national, and global levels by raising the public’s awareness of the links between environmental factors and human health. Their work can make a very real difference in consumer choice, and in subsequent corporate decisions—and it’s getting noticed. This month, the Boston-based John Merck Fund awarded Myers the Frank Hatch ‘Sparkplug’ Award for Enlightened Public Service.”
Toan Nguyen and C’ville Central
“Toan is well-known in town, and this new venture provides opportunities for local business owners by connecting them with large institutions. If these outreaches can create new efficiencies, raise awareness, and help the local economy while still allowing anchor institutions to meet their objectives, we all win.”
Kristin Suokko and Local Food Hub
“Local Food Hub is a nonprofit focused on improving small farm viability and increasing our community’s access to local food. Charlottesville/Albemarle prides itself on being a culinary destination, and the Food Hub’s work helps ensure that small farms can thrive, and that local food is not just an expensive proposition for the well-to-do.”
Neal Kassell and the Focused Ultrasound Foundation
“The Foundation’s goal is to accelerate the development of new applications for focused ultrasound, and to speed its widespread adoption as a standard of care. They view this treatment as a potential game-changer, and are deeply committed to removing implementation hurdles in the interest of saving lives.”
Brian Wheeler and Charlottesville Tomorrow
“Brian, along with Rick Middleton and Michael Bills, started Charlottesville Tomorrow as a non-profit community news platform covering growth, development, public education, and local politics in Charlottesville-Albemarle. It connects the public to vital information for making informed choices about our community’s future.”
“As much as we emphasize technical entrepreneurship, these local efforts can profoundly impact the lives of people here in Charlottesville, and far beyond our community,” Hamilton said. “Doing social good is just one result of moving markets in a direction that benefits people and the planet while generating prosperity. All five examples involve entrepreneurs identifying unfilled market niches which can generate value more broadly than traditional enterprises.”