We are in the process of preparing two feasibiilty studies for new venture possibilties for Greyston Foundation in Yonkers NY.  Earlier in this project, we assisted them in assessing their assets and core competencies, and then brainstorming and screening about 100 venture ideas into ten possibilities.  At that point, we completed "Sixty Minute" research summaries on each venture, and assisted them in selecting two ventures for full feasiblity study.  [The following is from the Greyston Foundation website.]

Greyston Foundation has become a national model for comprehensive community development. Recognized as a pioneer in “social enterprise,” Greyston uses entrepreneurship to solve the problems of the inner city and reduce reliance on external funding sources.

Greyston Bakery, a for-profit business, has a double bottom line. “We don’t hire people to make brownies, we make brownies in order to hire people.” Those we hire at the bakery are considered to be “hard to employ.” The bakery is just one of the Foundation’s enterprises. Today, Greyston programs reach 2,200 community members annually.

Greyston Foundation’s mission is to support low-income individuals and families as they forge a path to self-sufficiency and community transformation. Greyston is an entrepreneurial and spiritually grounded organization that operates an integrated network of not-for-profit and for-profit companies in Westchester County providing jobs, workforce development, housing, youth services, community gardens, and health care.