Once upon a time, enterprises with charitable missions were considered not to be on the forefront of technology, the Internet and social media, but these tech-savvy social businesses show how many groups are on the cutting-edge of both positive change and the tech industry.
It's no surprise that technology (and with the help of Internet tools like social media) can contribute to solving social problems. This list ranges from interesting websites that track the consumer chain to innovative LED lights that are meant to replace dangerous kerosene lamps in places like Rwanda, where they have become ubiquitous.
From articles like "African Abuse Apps" and "Purpose-Driven IT Companies" to showcases of "Design-Focused LED Lanterns," these tech-savvy social businesses show you the best of charitable initiatives and technological innovation.
25 Tech-Savvy Social Businesses
From Purpose-Driven IT Companies to Design-Focused LED Lanterns:
Tiana Reid — Sep 14, 2011 — Social Good
25
Stripped-Down SUVs
The Mobius One Vehicle Offers Economic Mobility for African Countries
24
Kerosene-Replacing Lamps
Nuru Uses LED Lights to Create Jobs and Promote Safety in Rural Rwanda
23
Jewelry-Funded Water Purifiers
The Midomo Launch in Mwingi, Kenya Will Bring Security
22
Literary Smartphone Covers
Speck x Out of Print Novel Cases Bring Back Classic Stories
21
Crowdfunded Social Innovator Sites
‘StartSomeGood’ Grows Purpose-Driven Initiatives
20
African Abuse Apps
Mobi-Reportabuse is a Ghanian Cellphone Service to Report Violence
19
Low-Cost Solar Lanterns
D.Light Design Wins Ashden Award for a Lamp Brighter than Kerosene
18
Purpose-Driven IT Companies
Better The World is a B Corporation Using Technology for Social Good
17
POS Social Enterprises
Frogtek Uses Cellphones to Bring Tools to Small-Scale Retailers
16
Design-Focused LED Lanterns
‘d.light’ Offers Affordable Solar Lamps to Rural Communities
15
Developing World Entrepreneur Webisodes
‘Young World Innovators’ Follows African Business
14
Medicinal Transport Pods
'Matternet' Offers Incredible Solutions to Help the Majority World
13
African Artist Assist Sites
African Cartel Gives Struggling Artists an Online Outlet
12
Global Empowerment Tutor Sites
EducateNcare Works with Students for a Social Purpose
11
Empowering Childcare Networks
Cool2Care Matches Personal Assistants with Disabled Children
10
Crowdsourced Charity Reviews
GreatNonProfits is a Website that Supports Good Causes
9
Conscientious Clothes-Tracking
This Made-By Website Tracks Textiles Transparently
8
Franchised H2O Solutions
Sarvajal Aims to Solve the Clean Water Problem in India
7
Social Business Marketplaces
ClearlySo is a Website Connecting Investors and Enterprises
6
Global Goods Tracking Sites
The iuMAP Project Tracks and Maps Global Social Enterprise
5
Crowdfunded Social Enterprises
OC Theory Makes a Difference by Funding Small Businesses
4
Coffee Connection Sites
Coffee CSA Lets You Connect with and Buy from Java Farmers Worldwide
3
Computer Cradle Campaigns
‘Saving Bletchley Park' is Restoring the Origin of the PC
2
Technological Literacy Programs
‘121 Women and Computers' Teaches Valuable Employment
1
Social Business Info Portals
Via3 Offers Publicity and Networking for Ethical Companies
Related Ideas
Technology-Driven Retail Spaces
ARK Visual Unveils Future Stores as an Immersive Retail Identity
Customizable Workplace Productivity Lights
The Busy Tag Lets Users Express Themselves
Revolutionary Social Networking Platforms
Soei aims to contribute value to the Global Community
LED Can Concepts
The Pepsi Smart Can Has a Flexible HD Display & Sound System
Intelligent Accessible Light Designs
The Conceptual 'Lamptok' Light Supports the Hearing Impaired
Uplifting Social Media Campaigns
Optimism Your Feed Helps Social Media Users Retrain the Algorithm
Social-Centric Wireless Earbud Concepts
Kusi Boateng-Arthur Introduces the Social Earbud Concept
Spherical Solar-Powered Illuminators
The 'Tether' Indoor Lamp is Sustainably Chic
Novel AI-Generated Product Designs
Arcade Introduced a Transformative AI Product Creation Platform
Gen Z AI Campaigns
Lenovo Launches a New Campaign Called 'Meet Your Digital Self'
Purposeful Consumer-Focused Campaigns
IKEA's Sleepfluencers Campaign is a Clever Way to Give Back
5g-Enabled Retail Showcases
Singtel is Surpassing Consumer Expectations with 5G Retail
Digital Sustainable Food Solutions
Special Projects Debuts Eco Lenses to Help with Decision-Making
Gen Z-Centric Campaigns
Urban Outfitters' Shift Happens Campaign Has Three Phases
Next-Gen News Apps
Shades is a News and Culture App for Gen Z and Gen Alpha
Tech-Driven Sexual Wellness
Experience the Future of Intimacy
Best-Selling Adaptive Apparel
Anthropologie Launches a New Adaptive Apparel Capsule
Brainstorming Business Idea Tools
IdeaMate is the Solution to Fighting Stale Business Ideas
AI Social media Management
Social360 Offers a Streamlined Solution to Stay Ahead of the Curve
Social Commerce Platforms
21 Buttons is a Social Fashion Shopping Network
Resurrected Used Smartphones
Think Tank Team Makes Artifacts with Project Afterlife
AI-Generated Lighting Tech
Lepro's LightGPM Smart Lights Adapt to Commands and Emotions
Live Shopping Flagships
Outlandish's Santa Monica Location Supports Live Social Media Shopping
Social Commerce Apps
GIST is an App-Based Social Platform for Sharing Purchases with Friends
LED-Infused Festival Fashion
Tinsel Arcade Offers Expressive Statement Clothing & Accessories
Advanced Adaptive Retail Experiences
Walmart Unveiled New Retail Technologies at CES 2024
AI-Powered Marketing Tools
This E-Commerce Tool Uses Customer Data to Project Reward Impacts
Anthropomorphic Store Campaigns
IKEA's Short Social Films Promote Its Click-and-Collect Service
AI-Powered Digital Transformation Services
InfiniteIQ Consulting Has Redesigned Its Website
Value-Based Shopping Apps
Veebs Encourages Consumers to Learn About a Brand's Ethical Values
Inventive Retail Strategies
H&M is Working to Localize Its Shopping Experience
AI Startup Idea Generators
IdeaPicker Scours Reddit to Discover Your Next Big Idea
Social Professional Productivity Apps
The 'LikeMind' App Connects Users to Other Hustlers
Charity Health-Tech Apps
Helpster Charity Connects Sectors to provide Essential Healthcare
AI-Powered Digital Employees
Product Genius Transforms How Small Businesses Connect with Customers
AI-Powered Productivity Apps
The 'BeforeSunset' App Helps with Planning and Time Management
In-Store Audience Engagement Solutions
Social Shelf® Has a Novel Approach to Customer Engagement
Integrated Influencer Marketing Platforms
SocialTalk Helps Users Discover, Track, and Connect
Technology News Summaries
TechTok Helps Readers Stay On Top of News in Five Minutes
Beauty Tech Initiatives
L’Oréal Brings Big Bang Beauty Teach Innovation Program to Northern Asia
Marketing Idea Generators
Thunderbucket Provides Marketing Ideas and Observations at Speed
Tech-Enhanced Beaded Bracelets
Soulstones Help People Make Connections and Memories
Human Connection-Centric Campaigns
Etsy's New Ad Campaign Wants to Keep Commerce Human
Comprehensive Health Care Suites
Bright Sits on the Intersection of Technology and Health
AI-Powered Content Creation Tools
Notega is a Solution for Business Owners and Entrepreneurs
Influencer-Focused Social Platforms
Later Launches an AI-Powered Social Listening Tool
Business Founder Newsletters
The Solo Founder Newsletter Compiles the Top News and Inspiration
Tech-Powered Business Solutions
Apple Business Connect Leverages the Brand's User Base
Social Shopping Networks
Stage TEN Empowers Creators to Build Their Own Live Shopping Channel
Pioneering Secondhand Search Engines
Beni Dominates Resale Marketplace with Innovative App
Efficiency-Focused AI Tools
Arcane Has Launched a New AI App Bundle for Start-Ups
Eco Eye-Friendly Display Technologies
The HANNspree ecoVISION Paper Display is Versatile
Sleek E-Waste-Reducing Computers
Wipro Infotech Unveils a New Line of Eco-Friendly Computers
Minimalist Social Media Platforms
Bluesky is a Simple, Minimalist Social Media Platform
E-Waste Take-Back Boxes
Trashie's Tech Take Back Box Responsibly Recycles Electronic Devices
Loneliness-Combating Social Campaigns
Hinge Launches the New One More Hour Campaign and Fund
Eco-Conscious Production Facilities
Soorty Enterprises Achieves SBTi Validation for Its Eco Goals
Luxury Adventure Travel Platforms
UNCHARTED Recently Introduced the EVOLVE Multimedia Platform
Clean Energy Battery Companies
Greenworks Group Has Been Featured in The Human Component
Private Social Photo Apps
The 'Retro' App Focuses on Mindful Sharing with Select Others
Thought-Provoking Social Apps
Skaldic is an App for Curious Minds
Hospitality-Centric Tech Headquarters
MAWD Designs the Interiors of a Tech Company in LA
Innovative Digital Signage
Creative Realities Enhances Fan Engagement & Outcomes with New Signage
Digital Business Card Platforms
Digital Business Card Claims to Offer an Eco-Friendly Approach
Kindness-Focused Social Media
Kyndr is a Community-Based Social Media Platform
Marketing Social Advocacy Tools
Nut Tree Helps Smaller Brands Boost Their Presence
APPI Eco-Friendly Furniture
Sabai Design is a Sustainable Furniture Disruptor Led by Woman Founder
AI-Powered Business Incorporation Services
iCompany Aims to Revolutionize Business in Malaysia
Competitor Insight Business Platforms
'RivalSense' Helps Brands Monitor Their Competitors
Hospitality-Focused AI-Driven Lighting Solutions
SAVE Electronics Aims to Enhance Guest Experience
Forest-Protecting Fashion Brand Initiatives
Canopy Leads an Initiative To Save the Forests
Senior Technology Tutors
Kamloops Partner Assisted Learning Helps Seniors Improve Digital Literacy
Mindful Illumination Holiday Campaigns
Santa & Cole Presents a Warm Embracing Light Campaign
Social Good Computer Drives
Digitunity Partners with OBAE to Address Technological Barriers
Tech-Enhanced Travel Planning
Travvit is a Travel Discovery Platform to Inspire Better Vacations
Pro-Community Social Media Apps
Take Creates Real Life Interactions Through a Social Network
Tech Worker-Focused Wellness Apps
TechieMind is a Mental Health Tool for Tech Industry Workers
Anniversary-Celebrating Nonprofit Partnerships
LILYSILK Engages in Philanthropic Partnerships
Discarded Theater Screen Lamps
Haneul Kim Transforms Waste into Lighting Designs
Short Film-Inspired Ads
Apple’s New ‘The Underdogs’ Ad Features Various Apple Products
Inspirational Learning Management Tools
'Get Inspired' Offers Digestible Snippets of Content
AI Business Consultants
15-Minute Business Plans Helps Entrepreneurs and Business Owners
Meaningful Connection Platforms
Livebeam Wants to Connect Like-minded People in an Online Space
Nature-Centric Tech Summits
Huawei Joins with the International Union for Conservation of Nature
Comforting Mental Health Apps
Lunai Allows Users to Share Their Thoughts in Private
Entrepreneurial Mentorship platforms
GrowthMentor Connects Individuals for 1:1 Support
Social Gathering-Scheduling Apps
Tecatita Light Debuts the Convenience-Focused Momentitos App
Company Culture-Enhancing Communication Tools
Motivosity Has Unveiled a New Feature Called Spaces
Efficiency-Driven Digital Ad Solutions
ShopLiftr is Revolutionizing Digital Advertising
AI-Powered Creative Services
WePost Saga Helps Businesses Enhance Their Online Social Presence
Minimalist Social Media
Othrys Provides Social Media Optimized for Learning and Productivity
Niche Community Builders
Socially is the Community Builder Platform for Niche Creators Everywhere
AI-Boosted Enterprise Tools
The 'Innovation Assistant' Assists Ideation and Implementation
SaaS Influencer Marketing Tools
Beeing Social Launches 'Buzz Bee Buzz' for Influencer Marketing
Localized Networking Platforms
Presence Connects Users with Like-Minded Individuals Nearby
Curated Website Suggestions
Curation of Curations Finds the Best Sites Based on Your interests
Efficient Property Management Apps
Tribe Property Technologies Has Launched Its Tribe Home App
Billboard-Transformed Tent Shelters
Wunderman Thompson Morocco Creates the Life-Saving Outdoors
Smart Life-Planning Apps
Last Plannr is More Than a Traditional To-Do List
Supportive Entrepreneurial Communities
The Zenpreneur Community Provides Resources and Support
Smart Telecom Power Solutions
Huawei Unveiled Its Latest Innovation in Bangkok, Thailand
Virtual Retail Solutions
Simbe's Store Intelligence™ Solutions Provide Results on a Global Scale
Professional Community Platforms
LinkedIn is Targeting Gen Z Professionals with its New Campaign
Goal-Oriented Health Apps
The 'Bright' App Offers a Holistic View of One's Health
Cultural Social Media Documentaries
Hulu Unveils the Black Lives Matter: A People's History Doc
Network-Connecting AI Solutions
Village AI Connect with Your Network to Close Deals
Social Isolation-Combating Platforms
TimeBank by Healthfirst Foundation Has Debuted a New Platform
Connective Non-Profit Funding
Wingtap Connects Users with Charities in Need of Fund
Social Engagement Platforms
Perspik Provides an Online Space for Thoughtful Engagement
Effective Work Environment Technology
HP Inc. Unveils Advancements Within Its Workforce Solutions
Intentional Online Experiences
Slow Internet Takes Users Back to a More Enriching Online World
Modern Business Card Scanners
Spreadly Scan Brings Networking to the Modern Age
Explorative Entrepreneur Ideas
Hustle Momumtum Invites You to Discover and Launch Side Hustles
Entrepreneur Brand-Building Tools
IndieLogs Helps Founders Stand Out Through Personalized Profiles
Spiritual Wellness Companions
Sol Inspires Positivity with Daily Tools for Spiritual Health
Pre-Loved Ancestral Apparel
McCann Japan and SAFARI Debut the Second Life Social Commerce Platform
Inventive Charity Initiatives
Spark Financial's Annual Charity Initiative is for Autism Awareness
Provocative Eco Screensavers
Planet-Saving Screen Savers Encourage Switching Off Devices
Pre-Launch B2B Startup Apps
Faindrr Focuses on Growth and Connections Between new Startup Founders
Aggregated Social Insights
IndiePulse Uses Forum and Thread Comments to Find Your Next Projects
AI-Generated Social Ad Copy
the M1-Project Helps Business Owners Convert Using Social Media
Intellectually Stimulating Social Media
Maven Goes Back to Basics with Traditional Algorithms
Employee Engagement Tools
Triibe Offers Interactive Newsfeed, Polls, Surveys, and More
Professional Networking Platforms
Peerlist Helps Individuals and Businesses Create Profiles
Forest-Preserving Brand Initiatives
Three Prominent Chinese Fashion Companies Join Canopy
Accessible Home Services Marketplaces
Urban Company Recently Made Its Platform More Accessible
Entrepreneurial Journey Insights
Founder Folks Teaches You How Founders Launched Their Business
Daily-Prompting Social Journals
Journal. Invites Users to Share Their Thoughts and Feelings
Mental Health Community Engagement
OOt Social Health Recently Launched Its Application
Employee Recognition Tools
Teamlight Shines a Spotlight on Employees and Their Great Work
Empowering Nonprofit Organizations
NTI is Committed to Supporting the Disability Community
Social Media Lead Generation
IgLeadGen Helps People Find and Target Leads for Business
Efficient Personalized Idea Newsletters
Sofon Curates Personalized Insights From Numerous Sources
Entrepreneurial Community Building
VenturePals Steps in to Help Solo Entrepreneurs Find Community
Growth-Based Marketing Platforms
Crowdtiv Connects Mentors and Mentees to Grow Businesses
Community Social Apps
Beezle Social Keeps Users Informed Connected with Their Neighbors
Connective Altruistic Apps
Heart 2 Help Uses Tech Can to Foster Positive Relationships
Niche Interest Ads
Interest Navigator Uncovers Interests That are Hidden from Most Advertisers
Streamlined Start-Up Job Searching
Startup Jobs by Binh Pham is a Community for Job Seekers
Digital Entrepreneur Directories
WebKits Aggregates Boilerplate Templates Across Tech Stacks