Editor’s Note: The deadline for applications has now passed. Please keep an eye out for the official list!
The Story Exchange has published lists of promising women business owners at the outset of their careers (Young Women to Watch) and proven entrepreneurs nearing their zenith (Power List). But this year, we decided to move away from points on a woman’s entrepreneurial journey, to the kinds of businesses so many women run: ventures that are designed to both do well and do good.
After all, we know from the findings of our 1,000 Stories project that women are often motivated to start companies by a desire for meaning and purpose, and many define business success by their ability to help or inspire other people. At the same time, doing good is on the rise as a business value, visible in increasingly popular concepts like social entrepreneurship and the “triple bottom line,” a measure of business results that combines financial, social and environmental achievements.
Between now and April 30, we are taking applications to be on what we’re calling The Good List. This list will spotlight women with exceptional businesses that are also fulfilling on commitments to make the world a better place. Apply now, if your company is working to combat poverty, stem disease, promote fair trade, support a sustainable environment — or make a difference in any other meaningful way.
Our official list will be published on our website site in late May. We will publish articles featuring the women on the list — and promote their stories through our media partners and social-networking channels. We may even feature top picks in future video profiles.
So, who qualifies? Here are some guidelines:
- You must nominate yourself.
- You must have been in business for at least three years.
- Your business must have an easily explained philanthropic, social or environmental component.
- You must have two or more employees (full- or part-time, but not independent contractors).
- You cannot be a franchisee, independent distributor or sales representative.
- You may reside anywhere in the world.
- If you have male co-owners or employees, you must be the main leader of the company.
Please also note that your submission will become part of our 1,000+ Stories project, an ongoing research effort with Babson College to better understand female entrepreneurship. Information you provide in your application may be published online, even if you are not selected for the list.
If you have submitted your story previously and would like to be considered for The Good List, please fill out the questionnaire again to provide up-to-date information about your business and answer three special list-related questions.
Be sure to tell your friends and family, colleagues and networks about The Good List. Encourage other women to apply by sharing this page via email, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram or LinkedIn. They will thank you!
What are you waiting for? Tell us all about your business — and how it’s changing the world — today!