Ex-eBay Architect Looks to Global Entrepreneurs
27 October 2003 at 12:10 pm
Jeff Skoll, the former president of the online auction company, eBay, now heads his own philanthropic foundation with charitable assets of $US 300 million and he’s looking to give grants to innovative ‘social entrepreneurs’ around the world!
Skoll and his San Hose-based Skoll Foundation is one of the few philanthropic success stories to emerge from the dot.com boom.
Recently the Foundation announced that it had increased its asset base for this year from $US117 million to $US300 million establishing core programs to help communities around the world by investing in, connecting and celebrating ‘social entrepreneurs’.
He organisation has established a new online community called Social Edge. The web site is a forum for Not for Profit leaders, academics and funders to discuss an array of issues, from best practices to “building social brands.”
This month’s featured entrepreneur is the head of the Australian Inspire organisation, Jack Heath.
Skoll says that by supporting social entrepreneurs, it empowers individuals to sow the seeds of positive change in their communities around the world.
Skoll started the foundation in 1999 and modelled his idea of empowering individuals to impact the social sector on a similar concept he established as the first president of eBay.
He says he likes the idea that philanthropy can support these remarkable people. Their innovations are the best hope for a better world.
Most of the Skoll Foundation’s funding will be focused on its flagship program called the Skoll Awards for Social Entrepreneurship, which will honour mid- to late-stage social entrepreneurs around the world who are selected through a nomination process.
The program, which is under development, will be launched in 2004. For information go to www.socialedge.org.
