Social Enterprise Heroes business case competition showed off its superhuman strength once again at the recent 7^th annual, community-building event at the York Theatre in Vancouver.  With the goal of celebrating, helping and empowering local non-profits and social enterprises, all the contestants were awarded financial and technical expertise assistance packages to help grow their enterprise.JDQ’s President, Jon Morris, one of the judges, had this to say about the evening: “JDQ Systems was delighted to join ASQ Vancouver, Futurpreneur, Junxion, KPMG, TELUS, Traction on Demand and Vancity Community Foundation in contributing over $50,000 of cash and in-kind expertise.  Based on the four judges’ recommendations, JDQ will be splitting its 3Spheres™ contribution of $10,000 equally between CleanStart and Richmond Youth Services Agency.”Michelle Eggli, Communications and Engagement Manager for Enterprising Non-Profits B.C., was excited that: “This year Social Enterprise Heroes focused on the many ways in which individuals and organizations can work together to create impact in our community and across BC.  There is an opportunity every day to make a difference – whether you run a social enterprise, support one through grants or donations, participate on a board, or give your advice and time”.

Erin Walker, Director Community Investment, of TELUS added that: “TELUS’ We Give Where We Live philosophy is at the core of our community investment initiatives. What matters to our communities, matters to us, which is why we believe in giving back to the communities in which we live and work. Social Enterprise Heroes is a perfect example of how we can partner with like-minded organizations and spirited entrepreneurs to drive sustainable change in local communities. We were honoured to join the team again this year and look forward to seeing how the three competitors expand their businesses and enhance their impact”.

Vancity Community Foundation executive director Derek Gent, who participated as an MC for Social Enterprise Heroes, says he was encouraged by the large crowd and a real diversity of participants. “We had practitioners and professionals, business leaders, local non-profits, government representatives and a vast array of supporters or just curious community members. That many people coming together shows very positive momentum in support for social enterprise”.

More information on the Social Enterprise Heroes event, sponsors and participants can be found at www.SocialEnterpriseHeroes.ca