ChangeSomething Entry - The Vancouver Cooperative Auto Network

The Vancouver Cooperative Auto Network (CAN) is our own Vancouver Grassroots Non-profit Social Enterprise. They've created a network of cars throughout the city to give their members access to the services of a vehicle without the need to own and maintain one, and their mission is to reduce street traffic and improve green space in the city.

Unfortunately, this small non-profit is up against some new competition. They've done such a great job developing the market for car sharing in Vancouver that some big international companies are entering the market to try and drive CAN out of business. They are worried, and with good reason.

Friends of mine - a couple - recently had a baby. Surprisingly, shortly before the baby was born, they sold their car, and joined the CAN network with the aim of reducing their footprint, but also the cost overhead of owning a car, now that they would have a new member in their family. They have been extremely happy with the service - CAN offers low prices (to provide access for all), and great service. I know so many people who have been happy with their service. CAN has over 150 cars throughout the city.

CAN is a non-profit, and is growing very quickly, but it is not a large international company with huge money behind it, nor do they have an an endless pool of strategic management resources to help them drive out competition in their market (and frankly, it just isn't their style). They do, however, have a very strong social mission, and a desire to improve the community rather than just make profits.

Because of this - I think this $1000 (and the invaluable media attention that will go with it) should go to Vancouver's homegrown non-profit business success story - CAN. It would be an investment into the future of our community, and into a way of doing business that hols promise for a brighter (and cleaner) future.