DreamTree Project in Taos is taking the plunge. I’ve talked to half a dozen non-profits this year interested in social enterprise.
Social enterprise is widely acknowledged as a good idea. But not everyone is willing to take the risk.
What pushed DreamTree over the line of caution into new territory in search of sustainable, predictable funding?
Perhaps it was a younger than average, insightful Executive Director. The willing board of directors? Guidance and a roadmap from a social enterprise guru Jean Block?
My guess is a combination of factors. Luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity. This non-profit is looking for more than the opportunity to ask. They are looking for the opportunity to grow. Literally.
Keep your eyes open for a container garden to be deposited on the youth shelter’s campus. Vertical hydroponic farming won out in a competition of over 60 business models that DreamTree’s social enterprise team considered. The revenue? Supports the nonprofit directly. I’ll buy those greens!
