Author: Vera Solutions
Vera Solutions is pleased to share their Impact Report, which highlights their journey as a B Corp and impact-driven social enterprise. The report offers a comprehensive glimpse into the milestones, partnerships, and innovations that have defined their work since 2010.
Explore the full report to discover how Vera Solutions has been transforming the social sector through data-driven technology solutions.
Author: Chess Jakobs
When we launched the Culture Amp Foundation, we shared our mission to make a better world of work more attainable. To realize that mission, we engaged Culture Amp employees, customers, partners, non-profit leaders, and prospective grantees to understand how we are uniquely positioned to support impactful organizations.
Our inaugural grantee, Indigitek, focuses its programming on increasing the percentage of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in STEM Careers in Australia. With our support, Indigitek funded marketing and production costs to expand its reach, supported staffing needs to implement its programs, and developed its educational platform so that educators around Australia can use the tools necessary to provide STEM education to students faster.
One of our company values is learning faster through feedback. By piloting an unrestricted grant program in close partnership with Indigitek, we have seen that unrestricted grants enable nonprofits to achieve their mission more effectively than the alternative standard practice– telling nonprofit leaders what to do every step of the way. If we want to help nonprofits turn their visions into realities, we must also trust the leaders of these organizations to do what is best to make that possible.
We have decided to expand our grantee portfolio and onboard new nonprofits that can utilize our unrestricted grants. This increases financial health and flexibility of use, whether investing in employee engagement and culture or expanding their fundraising capacity. It promotes innovation, empowering nonprofits to engage in the research and development necessary to pioneer marvels of social impact. It helps expand capacity, giving organizations autonomy to invest in technology upgrades or rising operational costs that all contribute to their mission and ours.
Welcoming six new Culture Amp Foundation Grantees
We are excited to welcome six new grantees who are making a better world of work more attainable for all people, including but not limited to first-generation college graduates, people impacted by the justice system, people who do not have access to decent work, and/or those who are transitioning to work that benefits society at large.
- BLK Men in Tech provides access, resources, and a community for Black men in the tech space and those interested in entering the industry. They focus on supporting the next generation of tech leaders and helping Black men accelerate into leadership.
- Color in Tech expands the range of inclusive pathways into the tech industry by partnering with leading tech companies to foster environments where diverse talent thrives. As creators of Europe’s largest event for diverse professionals, they have built a network of over 60,000 people, providing connections and opportunities at every stage.
- COOP Careers has almost 2000 fellows in five cities completing their fellowship annually. They help their fellows build the professional skills and networks that first-generation college graduates need to secure their first job after graduation. Their unique career accelerator brings together peer cohorts of 16 motivated, un/underemployed first-gen grads who meet nightly for 16 weeks (200 hours) to jumpstart their careers in digital marketing, data analytics, and financial services.
- The Karrkad Kanjdji Trust (KKT) supports women’s ranger programs that enable First Nations women to overcome the disadvantages of remoteness and access culturally-appropriate employment, training and leadership opportunities while caring for their custodial lands. KKT is a shared resource for eight First Nations community-controlled organisations in Arnhem Land today. It funds innovative on-Country employment opportunities, supports the preservation and revitalisation of culture, and the conservation of over 50,000 square kilometres of land and sea Country.
- The Last Mile provides opportunities for personal and professional growth for justice-impacted individuals through education and technology training. TLM develops job-ready employees who transition from incarceration to employment with the support of TLM’s reentry team. Fellows in the TLM program are trained in Web Development, Audio Video Production and coming soon Entrepreneurship, Music Management, Sales, Marketing, Project Management, and more.
- Work on Climate is on a mission to build the workforce to solve climate change equitably and justly. It has built the world’s largest online community for professionals working in climate change or seeking to enter the field. Through its programs, 3,000+ people have found climate jobs, and 3,000+ climate founders have been unblocked on their company journeys.
Our offerings do not stop at our monetary commitments. Our grantees are also eligible for a product grant, allowing them to leverage the Culture Amp platform to boost performance, engage employees, and develop talent. They can also utilize our employee volunteering program, which includes up to 40 pro-bono hours per year per employee. Employees can use their unique skills to help organizations achieve their missions. As a Pledge 1% Builder and B-Corporation, we know first-hand the importance of businesses giving back in more ways than one.
In the words of Culture Amp Co-Founder and CEO Didier Elzinga, “The Culture Amp Foundation is where what we do as an organization meets who we are as an organization.” We are familiar with taking innovative approaches to building. It is at the core of who we are as a company, and that is the same standard we have for the Culture Amp Foundation.
Maham Hassan
Director & Technical Architect, Cloud-1
Dubai, UAE
If you could describe yourself in one word, what would that be and why?
Committed.
It has been a journey marked by ongoing commitment to achieving excellence. Back in 2013, when Salesforce was relatively unknown in Pakistan, I made a conscious decision to pursue a career in this emerging field. Despite the limited awareness and support around me, I remained steadfast in my determination, eventually emerging as one of the pioneering women working in Salesforce within the region.
My commitment extended beyond personal success; it encompassed a dedication to continuous learning and the empowerment of others. Recognizing the importance of knowledge-sharing, I took it upon myself to not only deepen my own expertise but also to impart that knowledge and mentor new talent entering the Salesforce ecosystem.
Through countless hours of study, hands-on experience, and mentorship, I honed my skills and navigated the challenges that came my way. And as I progressed in my journey, I made it a priority to uplift others, helping them unlock their potential and thrive in their own Salesforce careers.
In this pursuit of excellence, my commitment has remained unwavering. It is this dedication to learning, sharing, and nurturing talent that has not only shaped my own success but also contributed to the growth of the Salesforce community in Pakistan. And as I continue on this journey, I am driven by the belief that true fulfillment lies not just in personal achievements, but in the collective success and advancement of all those around me.
Pledge 1% provides a framework for businesses to do good. Do you think it’s important for today’s corporate leaders to prioritize social impact? If so, why?
In today’s corporate landscape, prioritizing social impact is not just admirable but essential. The reasons behind this imperative are manifold. Firstly, companies bear a responsibility to contribute positively to society, as doing so not only enhances their reputation but also fosters trust among customers, employees, and communities alike.
Furthermore, corporate leaders who embrace social responsibility are better positioned to attract and retain top talent. In an era where the younger workforce seeks meaning and purpose in their professional lives, companies that champion social impact resonate more deeply with employees, leading to higher retention rates and a more engaged workforce.
Moreover, prioritizing social impact and giving back to the community isn’t just a moral obligation; it’s a strategic advantage. By actively engaging in initiatives that benefit the communities they serve, companies can cultivate robust, enduring relationships that underpin long-term success and sustainability.
In essence, integrating social impact into corporate strategy isn’t just a nicety—it’s a business imperative that drives positive change and fosters meaningful connections within and beyond the organization.
Do you give back to the community with your team and work? If so, what does this look like?
Giving back to Community has always been close to my heart. The inspiration struck in 2019 when my inbox flooded with requests for Salesforce mentorship and guidance. I realized the potential to reach a broader audience and thus conceived a plan to give back on a larger scale.
This led to the creation of Cloud-1, a Salesforce Consulting Partner company dedicated to refining professionals embarking on Salesforce careers or transitioning from other tech stacks. Since its inception, Cloud-1 has proudly nurtured 42 certified Trailblazers who are actively contributing to our community.
Additionally, I founded the Trailblazer Community Group in Lahore with the vision of fostering unity and providing support for learning and problem-solving. Within this group, I initiated the Code HERoes program aimed at empowering returning mothers and young women to fulfill their aspirations in Salesforce ecosystem. With the dedicated support of my team at Cloud-1, this mentorship initiative has strengthened our circle of giving back, making it more impactful and fulfilling for all involved.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
Never Give Up!
This year’s International Women’s Day themes are focused on investing in women and inspiring inclusion. What can we do to make today’s workplaces more equitable and inclusive for women?
Equal Pay – Ensure pay equity by conducting regular audits to identify and address any gender pay gaps.
Establishing onsite childcare facilities can greatly alleviate the burden on working mothers. By providing a safe and nurturing environment for children within the workplace premises, mothers can focus on their tasks with peace of mind. Companies can also provide Lactation Rooms & Flexible work arrangement for Women.
What advice do you have for women who are just starting their career?
Discover Your Worth. The first step is to understand yourself—your strengths, aspirations, and life goals. Take the time to pinpoint exactly what you want to achieve. There are countless career paths available, but it’s crucial to align them with your dreams.
Discover Your Worth.
Be proactive in seeking out opportunities that resonate with your ambitions. Stay informed and attentive to your field of interest. Embrace learning opportunities and stay focused on honing your skills. Don’t let impostor syndrome derail your progress.
Challenges are inevitable, especially for women in the industry. Whether it’s societal norms, balancing motherhood, or personal struggles, remember to stay resilient. Never underestimate your capabilities—persevere and believe in yourself. You have what it takes to succeed.
What are you looking forward to this year? Are there any goals (personal or professional), activities, or experiences you are excited about?
This year, I’m excited to extend my business operations into the Middle East—a region I’m deeply passionate about. Alongside this endeavor, I’m also dedicated to preparing for the CTA Board Review. I’m putting in the hard work and determination needed to achieve success in both endeavors.
This year marks Pledge 1%’s 10th Anniversary . As part of this milestone, this March, we will celebrate the many accomplishments of women in the Pledge 1% movement as part of #WomenWhoLead , our annual campaign in honor of Women’s History Month.
Our plan is to publish one profile a day throughout the month of March on our blog and social media as a way to celebrate women who are making a difference at work and in their communities. We’d love your help identifying female leaders to profile for this special series!
If you or someone you know is interested in sharing their story, please complete the quick nomination form below Friday, February 14th ️. You are welcome to nominate any female at your organization: they can be a team member, a manager, an investor, a client, or other contact. You are also welcome to nominate yourself! Our team will reach out to the nominees directly with the next steps.
Help us celebrate this special anniversary by shining a spotlight on the women who inspire us all!
Author: Okta
Okta is a U.S.-based identity and access management company with a vision of accelerating a world where everyone can safely use any technology. Their cloud software solutions allow their customers to enable secure access and seamless experiences for their customers, employees, and partners.
In 2016, the organization joined Pledge 1% and founded their social impact and sustainability initiative, Okta for Good, to solidify their commitment to giving back to global communities. Okta initially pledged to give away 1% of employee time and product, but they decided to add 1% of equity prior to their IPO in April 2017. This was an important step and reminder to investors that Okta for Good was a part of what they were investing in. Strategic grantmaking is then done via the Okta for Good Fund, a donor-advised fund through the Tides Foundation, which enables strategic grantmaking. The Fund distributed $5.48 million in grants in fiscal year 2024, mostly focused on digital equity and tech for good.
The best news? They are just getting started.
Learn how Okta’s equity commitment has set them up for future success in their case study below.
Eva Sifis
Change Maker, By Accident
Melbourne
If you could describe yourself in one word, what would that be and why?
Innovative – I take my reality and shape it.
Pledge 1% provides a framework for businesses to do good. Do you think it’s important for today’s corporate leaders to prioritize social impact? If so, why?
We live in society and can not separate ourselves from the impact by using titles or false separation. Evolution lies in communing with community; for the best way to traverse the dark is by holding hands.
Evolution lies in communing with community; for the best way to traverse the dark is by holding hands.
Do you give back to the community with your team and work? If so, what does this look like?
By Accident gives a space where those with brain injury (or experience of trauma) can meet those who truly get it; their peers. This opportunity does more than build skills, it shares recognition and understanding – difficult to justifiably receive when your whole world has changed forever.
In my other position as Project Coordinator for Give A Care Support Services I use my lived experience as disabled to bring projects, programs and opportunities to clients that accord to their needs and realities.
The lived experience of a Peer really is an unacknowledged area of expertise that will only increase in salience and worth in the future.
What are you looking forward to this year? Are there any goals (personal or professional), activities, or experiences you are excited about?
Getting the tv show I am working on to the screen.
It is time others learn about an injury affecting 700,000 Australians and quit the bastardization experienced by most of them.
Madeline Panther
Program Manager, BOP Industries
Brisbane, Australia
If you could describe yourself in one word, what would that be and why?
Warm – I’m a big people person and love making people feel seen and heard. My mum raised me to always “be more interested in others” when partaking in conversations and I owe that narrative to be extensive network today. I care deeply about how others feel when they are around me and always aspire to be a warm, welcoming individual.
Pledge 1% provides a framework for businesses to do good. Do you think it’s important for today’s corporate leaders to prioritize social impact? If so, why?
Absolutely, I agree wholeheartedly. In today’s business landscape, the concept of corporate social responsibility is not just a trend but a crucial aspect of sustainable and ethical leadership. Prioritizing social impact is essential for several reasons.
Firstly, it aligns businesses with the values of an increasingly conscious consumer base. Consumers today are more socially aware and tend to support companies that actively contribute to positive change. Prioritizing social impact not only enhances a company’s reputation but also fosters customer loyalty.
Secondly, it attracts and retains top talent. Employees, especially Generation Z, seek purpose and meaning in their work. A company that demonstrates a commitment to social impact attracts motivated individuals who want to be part of a broader positive contribution.
Thirdly, it mitigates risks associated with societal and environmental challenges. Companies that integrate social impact into their core strategy are better equipped to navigate issues like climate change, social inequality, and ethical concerns, reducing long-term business risks.
Do you give back to the community with your team and work? If so, what does this look like?
At BOP Industries, we are deeply committed to educational initiatives that empower the next generation of young professionals. Under my leadership as Program Manager we have developed future-focused impactful programs, our own national awards and large-scale events focused on fostering personal growth and career development among students and teachers.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
Act confident and no one will question you!
This year’s International Women’s Day themes are focused on investing in women and inspiring inclusion. What can we do to make today’s workplaces more equitable and inclusive for women?
Understanding and celebrating the inherent distinctions in how women engage with work is pivotal for cultivating an inclusive and high-performing workplace. As women, our innate predispositions give rise to distinctive strengths that significantly enrich the array of skills within the professional sphere. Qualities like meticulous detail orientation, effective communication, and empathetic understanding are just a glimpse of the attributes women bring to the workplace.
What advice do you have for women who are just starting their career?
Embrace the opportunity to evolve your perspective, and don’t be afriad to explore new avenues. The worst-case scenario is that you gain insights into what doesn’t align with your preferences. Don’t hesitate to reconsider your choices and be open to trying new things—each experience, whether a success or a lesson, contributes to your personal and professional growth.
Don’t hesitate to reconsider your choices and be open to trying new things—each experience, whether a success or a lesson, contributes to your personal and professional growth.
What are you looking forward to this year? Are there any goals (personal or professional), activities, or experiences you are excited about?
This year I am increasing my keynote speaking gigs and am very excited to speak on new topics and connecting with new people. I’m also planning my wedding!
Allys Todd
CEO & CoFounder, Val.Ai
Adelaide, Australia
If you could describe yourself in one word, what would that be and why?
Passionate – I have a strong sense of dedication, enthusiasm, and commitment. I am deeply passionate about addressing environmental issues, driving change, and advocating for sustainable solutions. this passion fuels my actions, motivates others to join the movement, and sustains my efforts in the face of challenges and obstacles.
Pledge 1% provides a framework for businesses to do good. Do you think it’s important for today’s corporate leaders to prioritize social impact? If so, why?
Prioritizing social impact for today’s corporate leaders is essential for enhancing reputation, attracting talent, mitigating risks, driving innovation, and ensuring long-term sustainability, while fulfilling stakeholder expectations and contributing to societal progress.
Do you give back to the community with your team and work? If so, what does this look like?
Impact is in our DNA – Val.Ai pledge 1% for the planet, are a carbon-neutral organization, champion gender equity and inclusion, collaborates with universities and partners with organizations to deliver value.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
Don’t let perfect get in the way of possible.
This year’s International Women’s Day themes are focused on investing in women and inspiring inclusion. What can we do to make today’s workplaces more equitable and inclusive for women?
Lead by example, provide flexible work arrangements, invest in career development and increase diverse voices in your decision-making.
Pledge 1% offers guidance for businesses to integrate social responsibility into their strategies, benefiting both their bottom line and the communities they serve.
What advice do you have for women who are just starting their career?
Keep pushing boundaries and challenging norms, the world is ready for your contributions.
What are you looking forward to this year? Are there any goals (personal or professional), activities, or experiences you are excited about?
I am prioritizing nurturing friendships and time spent in nature in 2024.
Keep pushing boundaries and challenging norms, the world is ready for your contributions.
Author: Revolution Digital Marketing Agency
Cork, Ireland, 01/Dec/2024 – Revolution Digital Marketing Agency has announced its participation in Pledge 1%, a global initiative focused on inspiring companies to utilise their resources for social good. Revolution has committed to donating 1% of its company time to its selected partner, Iris House Cork, a charity dedicated to supporting individuals and families affected by cancer. Iris House provides free counselling, holistic therapies, and a welcoming space for those navigating their cancer journey, helping them to find strength, hope, and community.
This commitment builds on Revolution’s existing tradition of corporate social responsibility and sustainability. In 2024, the team partnered with Green Spaces for Health to plant 19 trees at St. Killian’s Primary School, contributing to Ireland’s environmental sustainability efforts. Revolution is committed, as it always has been, to its principles and to improving them further by formalising its pledge to donate time and expertise to Irish House Cork’s powerful mission.
“Supporting our community has always been at the heart of what we do at Revolution,” said Matt Sroka, founder and CEO of Revolution. “Joining Pledge 1% allows us to formalise our commitment to making a difference. We’re honoured to partner with Iris House Cork and contribute to their mission of providing holistic support and counselling to those affected by cancer. We are inspired by their work and we’re proud to be part of their journey to help individuals and families in the community.”
To learn more about Revolution’s pledge and upcoming initiatives, visit www.revolution.ie or contact contact@revolution.ie.
About Revolution Digital Marketing Agency
Revolution is a Cork-based digital marketing agency specialising in providing cutting-edge solutions for businesses looking to grow their online presence. From mobile-first web development and UX design to data-driven SEO and PPC campaigns, Revolution focuses on creating innovative marketing strategies that connect brands with their audiences. Guided by core values of sustainability and community support, the company integrates its commitment to environmental stewardship into every project. The company actively participates in local initiatives, aligns its efforts with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, and envisions a future where businesses, communities, and the planet can thrive together. Revolution is also focused on supporting the local community through sustainability projects.
About Irish House Cork
Iris House Cork provides vital support to individuals and families affected by cancer, offering a ‘home away from home’ for those navigating their cancer journey. Originally founded as The Girls Club in 2011 by Ann Dowley Spillane during her cancer treatment, the organisation began as a supportive community to share ideas, advice and encouragement. In 2017, the centre evolved under the leadership of CEO Linda Goggin James, who has continued Ann’s mission with a wide range of holistic therapies, counselling services and support groups.
With a foundation rooted in compassion and community, Iris House remains a beacon of hope for those on their cancer journey.
Contact:
Matt Sroka
Revolution Digital Marketing Agency
+353 87 621 89 46
contact@revolution.ie
Author: Docusign
Docusign is a San Francisco-based corporation that provides solutions for intelligent agreement management, accelerating the process of doing business and simplifying people’s lives. Their core mission is to redefine how the world comes together and agrees.
Docusign was one of the earliest companies to join the Pledge 1% movement. They have integrated social impact into the DNA of their culture since Day 1 by encouraging employees to volunteer as part of their VTO policy.
As the company grew, they continued to strategically align their social impact program with their business by integrating new technology and products, like the Intelligent Agreement Platform (IAM), into their product donation program. This has been a game changer for nonprofits to streamline their agreement signing processes and has allowed Docusign to assess and scale their impact programs alongside their core business.
Read more about how Docusign has designed their social impact program to keep pace with their changing business strategies and growing team in the case study below.