Ventures
Criterion Ventures identifies and solves
social problems on a large scale by launching
social ventures with internally developed
ideas. Just as business entrepreneurs create
and transform whole industries, social
entrepreneurs act as the change agents for
society, seizing opportunities others miss in
order to improve systems, invent and
disseminate new approaches and advance
sustainable solutions that create social
value.
Criterion's hybrid identity in
launching social ventures, both for
clients and by taking an equity position
with internally developed ideas is a unique
structure in the world of social ventures. As
the world of social entrepreneurship matures,
Criterion is helping to create the methodology
that can make social entrepreneurship more
accessible. Just like the oil industry's
transformation from wildcatting 100 years ago
to a systematic system with geologists,
Criterion is moving the world of social
entrepreneurship forward by applying the
lessons we learn to both our clients and our
ventures. Our work with clients makes our
ventures stronger and our work on our ventures
makes us better consultants as we regularly
execute on our ideas.
Criterion's model
of starting ventures with invitation
at the heart of the process from the beginning
challenges the traditional view of social
entrepreneurs as "rugged individuals" rather
than as a process done by a community of caring
individuals. Criterion harnesses the power and
creativity of our
network to help create better solutions.
Identifying and solving large-scale
social problems requires a commitment, vision,
and determination to persist in the face of
daunting odds. The Criterion
team is rife with the talent. Indeed,
all of our partners are accomplished
entrepreneurs whose innovations are changing
the world. We couple that talent with our
proven methodology to launch Criterion's own
big ideas for social change.
Bold Visions
Translated into
Sustainable
Ventures
Learn more... Active Ventures
Other Ventures
SVN
Social Venture Network:
Founded in 1987, SVN is a community of leaders who share a commitment to building a just and sustainable world through business. The relationships and initiatives born within this diverse network have ranged from lasting friendships to investment deals to founding organizations.
Learn more about Criterion Ventures' involvement with SVN here.
Emerging Ventures
We're very focused right now on the Venture Projects in progress, but if you'd like to check in with us or connect around an emerging idea or project email greenblatt [at] criterionventures.com