These companies have harnessed technology to empower people all over the world, whether it's rewarding volunteers with prizes or empowering travelers to deliver much-needed aid while visiting developing countries. While the companies are diverse, they are all on a mission to change our lives for the better and improve society.
Here's a roundup of featured projects from the past week, including exclusive video interviews with the founders of these innovative startups. To read more and watch the videos, click through to the full story, and follow the series to learn about more breakthrough companies.
1. Cause.it
Why It's Working: It's Foursquare for altruism -- volunteers love getting discounts at local shops, and the owners of those shops love the image boost they get from partnering with good causes.
2. Change.org
Why It's Working: The impact of Change.org petitions has been proven all over the world, in everything from a campaign against SOPA to the Trayvon Martin movement, and the website is proving that a digital petition can be powerful.
Read the full story and see the video here.
3. Portable Light Project
Why It's Working: The Portable Light Project team has developed an inexpensive solar textile kit to provide renewable power that can be adapted to meet the needs of people around the world.
4. mmMule
Why It's Working: mmMule makes a big impact through the barter system -- especially in its charitable and non-profit sector, "AngelMule." Travelers deliver much-needed goods to charities around the world, and gain a once-in-a-lifetime experience in return.
Read the full story and see the video here.
5. CleanTechnica
Why It's Working: CleanTechnica maintains a strong beat in the sustainable transportation category, making it a valuable resource in the evolving and expanding electric vehicle market.