Momentum is an invitational forum where some of the most creative minds in the progressive movement come together to challenge, inspire and energize each other. At Momentum 2008 you will: engage with cutting edge ideas, innovative strategies and unexpected experiences, engage in one-on-one discussions with leaders whose diverse experiences inform their work for social change, and engage in a community grappling with the hard issues of making change and creating the space to imagine what's possible. Leaders in the progressive community rarely have the chance to explore things in which they are not immersed, nor do they often have a chance to see challenges outside their own "issue silo". In the complex world where we are pushing for more enlightened policies, exposure to a broad set of approaches and perspectives strengthens us all.

Renewal has been investing in early stage businesses at the forefront of social and environmental innovation for almost 15 years.  Over that time, the good in the world being done by companies that we have been involved with has been apparent to many, but the financial returns built by these social entrepreneurs has been less obvious.

Paul Richardson, President of Renewal2, was interviewed by the Venture Capital Journal for their article on Socially Responsible Investing (SRI).  Click Here to read more about what Paul and other key players in the SRI realm have to say about the evolving model, deals and responsible exiting strategies.

I'm heartened by the response to Renewal2, our new social venture investment fund. Along with my colleague Nicole Bradbury, I've recently made trips to San Franciso and Seattle. We met with interested prospective partners, and new introductions who are committed to or are exploring mission based investing as changes in their portfolios.

I have a small sense of what Alice felt when she passed through the looking glass, and I have to tell you it is tons of fun. I had been peaking through for far too long, knowing that there was a different world where I might find more meaning, but I was afraid to cross through.

After 5 years of placing dozens of funds in social venture companies, I’m keen to expand our impact. Renewal2 offers friends, colleagues and mission based private foundation investors in Canada and the USA, access to this exciting emerging field.

After a successful kidney transplant in November from my old friend and Hollyhock co-founder, Shivon Robinsong, I have returned healthier than ever to a plethora of activities at Renewal.