GoodCompany Ventures program kicks off today with an impressive line-up of guest speakers.

Philadelphia, PA – June 1, 2009 – Philadelphia Mayor Michael Nutter presided over a “virtual ribbon-cutting” at the Navy Yard today, welcoming GoodCompany Ventures and its inaugural class of ten entrepreneurs to “Center City South.” The Mayor noted that his goal to build Philadelphia into the nation’s greenest city is strongly supported by GoodCompany’s role as an incubator for businesses with high potential for both social impact and profit.

The ten businesses selected to receive training, guidance and support through GoodCompany this summer represent Philadelphia (5), Delaware, New York (2), Western India and Western Pennsylvania. Their business models range from recycling sewer grease (BlackGold Biofuels) to providing support to nonprofessional caregivers (Partners on the Path).

GoodCompany plans to select and nurture a new cohort of promising businesses every summer, who will receive the benefit of group sessions, one-on-one mentoring and pro bono services.

Former Ben & Jerry’s president Chuck Lacy also spoke at the ceremony

Source: http://www.goodcompanyventures.org/news-and-events/

Unfortunately, I missed the inauguration as it took a little longer to get the VISA formalities done. I really look forward to meet other entrepreneurs and mentors at GoodCompany Ventures soon.

Update:

Here is a slick video from the inaugural address:

June 1st Kickoff from Good Company Ventures on Vimeo.

Here are some pictures from the event: