Pursuing Profit and Purpose: The Debate in California's Statehouse and What it Means for Us

California has been a pioneer of innovation on many fronts - industry, media, science, and technology. Today our statehouse is considering two bills that could significantly enhance California's ability to innovate in the social enterprise sector.

In the State Assembly and State Senate, new legal forms are being considered for corporations -- the Benefit Corporation and the Flexible Purpose Corporation. Both seek to make it easier for entrepreneurs to pursue both purpose and profit under one roof.

Why do we need such legislation? What are the differences between the two bills? Will new laws make it easier for entrepreneurs to find start-up capital? What are the prospective advantages and potential perils for investors? Should for-profit social businesses benefit from preferential treatment similar to the incentives available to non-profit organizations?

In partnership with the Impact Economy Initiative of the Aspen Institute, Omidyar Network is proud to host a conversation with leading voices in this conversation. Panelists will share insights on the legislation as well as explore implications for impact investors, social entrepreneurs, and philanthropists. This will be a hands-on discussion designed to frame the issues in a practical manner that will be useful to all.