Social Enterprise Alliance-Chicago Chapter

08/27/2026

Social enterprises are built to create both financial value and positive change. To know whether that change is really happening, startups need to measure impact—not just activity.

08/17/2026

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08/13/2026

As we close out an incredible chapter here at Social Enterprise Chicago, we want to take a moment to express our deepest gratitude to Alberto Rincon for his exceptional service and dedication as a member of our Board of ...

07/20/2026

Please join us in welcoming Daveed Holmes to the Board of Directors at SEC!

We are proud to welcome Daveed Holmes to our Board of Directors.

Mr. Holmes brings a powerful and unique perspective to our leadership team. As a cultural storyteller who bridges the gap between policy, business, and non-profits through the lens of public health, he is an expert at bringing diverse groups together to create in entirely new ways.

With a deep background in health and wellness—spanning his work as the co-founder of SHINE Recovery Cafe, his service as a United Nations Association Ambassador for the Chicago Chapter, and his advocacy for at-risk youth and adults through "For The Love of the Arts"—Daveed is deeply committed to driving sustainable, multi-generational impact.
We are excited to have his leadership as we continue to grow and evolve.

Welcome, Daveed!

07/17/2026

🚀 Is your team driving the future of innovation in Chicago?

It’s time to get the recognition you deserve!

Social Enterprise Chicago is proud to announce that nominations for the Chicago Innovation Awards are officially open, and this is your chance to shine on a regional and national stage. Whether you’re a startup, a non-profit, or a large corporation, we want to celebrate your breakthrough ideas.

Why Nominate? Celebrate Your Team: Reward your employees for their hard work and commitment to innovation.

• Elite Recognition: Be honored at the Chicago Innovation Awards in front of 750 industry leaders.
• National Spotlight: Winners receive unique visibility, including the incredible opportunity to ring the Nasdaq Bell in NYC!
• Brand Exposure: Gain valuable coverage across local and national media.
• Expand Your Network: Join a thriving community with invitations to year-round Chicago Innovation events.

Who Can Apply? Startups, midsize companies, and large corporations. For-profits and non-profits across all industries.

Requirement: The innovation must have been developed in the Chicago region within the last 4 years. The Details Deadline: July 31 Cost: Free! Note: Self-nominations are highly encouraged—in fact, most of our applicants nominate themselves! Beyond the awards, Chicago Innovation connects a community of over 10,000 innovators dedicated to building and growing our region’s ecosystem. Don’t let your hard work go unnoticed.

👉 Nominate your innovation here: https://chicagoinnovationawards.wufoo.com/forms/r3onqlb08uwm7i/

07/06/2026

Social Enterprise Chicago is extending a sincere thank you to David Feinberg for his time and commitment while serving on the SEC board.

Your leadership, strategic insight, and unwavering commitment have been instrumental in navigating the challenges and opportunities the organization has faced during your tenure. Your contributions have not only helped shape the direction of the SEC but have also left a lasting positive impact on our mission and the community we serve.

We are grateful for your contributions and the lasting positive impact you’ve made. Wishing you continued success!

07/04/2026

07/01/2026

Have you read our June newsletter?

05/27/2026

https://www.linkedin.com/posts/social-enterprise-chicago_while-social-enterprises-across-chicago-are-activity-7465427237190889474-giOF?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop&rcm=ACoAAAByt0cBcf1X3FXT4XTYed0nqzZ6pCUwlQ8

While social enterprises across Chicago are stepping up to build a more inclusive economy, unpredictable funding and limited capacity keep many from reaching their full potential. Discover how Social Enterprise Chicago is uniting funders, leaders, and public agencies to bridge the gap and strengthen...

05/25/2026

This Memorial Day, Social Enterprise Chicago joins the nation in a solemn remembrance of the men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country.

We reflect on their courage, dedication, and selflessness. At SEC, we believe the best way to honor their memory is by continuing our own form of service: catalyzing positive social change across the Greater Chicago area.

Our mission—to empower for-profit, non-profit, and hybrid ventures to deploy earned-revenue strategies to create positive social, economic, and environmental change is a commitment to building a more resilient, equitable, and vibrant community. Every time we help a Chicago social enterprise create partnerships, provide essential services, or find a sustainable path, we carry forward a legacy of community-focused action.

Today, as we remember those who gave everything, we reaffirm our purpose: "service that endures."

We encourage you to take a moment of reflection and find a way to serve your community this weekend.

With profound gratitude,

The Board of Directors,
Social Enterprise Chicago