October 1, 2015

New ventures aim to disrupt current methods for the better, often through advances in technology, something we call constructive disruption. Services like Uber and AirBnB have disrupted traditional taxis and hotels, changing how we go about our lives. But at the same time we face daunting societal problems: housing, healthcare, education, and political disenfranchisement that seem so vexing and incredibly slow to change. So we wonder if entrepreneurial methods can also constructively disrupt these areas. That's social entrepreneurship, employing startup principles for societal good.

We applaud these efforts at Drexel and throughout the region and believe in the entrepreneurial spirit: that a great way to effect change is to try something new. It's the start of a new academic year, and many of our incoming students chose Drexel because of its civic mission, seeking to have an impact on our neighborhood, our city, and our society. In this podcast, you've heard about efforts at Drexel's Close School of Entrepreneurship to introduce and foster social entrepreneurship within students, as well as community engagement efforts through the redesign of public spaces, such as playground. Just a few examples of Drexel's efforts in this area.

Many, if not most, problems will not be fully solved simply by applying new approaches and technology. The issues facing our society are extremely complex, and there are seldom quick fixes. But we must remain open to all forms of solutions. The reason we bring together such varied efforts at the ExCITe Center, from robotics research to community partnership efforts, is that potential solutions can come from anywhere. I want our students to know about the enormous potential of new technology, but also to be aware of the enormous challenges facing some in our neighborhood, a designated federal promise zone. It's going to take a diversity of perspectives, expertise, and new initiatives to effect constructive disruption right here in West Philadelphia, to improve health and wellness, education, and economic opportunity.

As our friends at the Close School say, you try and if you fail, fail forward. But the only real failure would be not to try at all.

Youngmoo Kim, Director