Parklife Partners with United Way of Dallas Social Innovation Accelerator
Where creativity meets purpose, there lies an extraordinary chance to enact meaningful change. Parklife has partnered with the United Way of Metropolitan Dallas Social Innovation Accelerator and the participating fellows to seize this remarkable opportunity.
In the heart of Dallas, the United Way’s Social Innovation Accelerator serves as a cornerstone in the community serving as a catalyst for change. The organization facilitates connections between visionary founders, seasoned mentors and dedicated donors. Their nine-month accelerator program, which draws interest annually from around 125 applicants, emphasizes comprehensive training across various business disciplines. This immersive experience equips participants with the skills and knowledge necessary to drive their organizations to sustained success and scale their impact.
Ten exceptional individuals are chosen during each annual cycle to undergo an intensive bootcamp, followed by personalized mentorship from area business leaders. Together, mentors and fellows outline milestone projects that prepare the organizations to operate at greater scale. The culmination is the highly anticipated Demo Day in late January, where fellows showcase the accelerator’s influence on their social impact business.
A group of judges then select five of the fellows to proceed to The Pitch, a Shark Tank-style competition in spring. Following a strategic public relations blitz that takes center stage in major Dallas media, the stage is set for the climatic event. At this pivotal moment, fellows contend for the prestigious title of Social Innovator of the Year and strive for significant cash investments – a defining peak in their transformative journey.
Recognizing the significance of these pivotal moments in a startup’s trajectory, Parklife’s partnership ensures that entrepreneurs have access to key branding, marketing, and communications resources at a reduced rate. Our services cater to the needs of participants as they prepare for Demo Day, amplifying their presentation impact and refining their pitches. This strategic support is designed to not only elevate individual startups but also to contribute to the overall success of the cohort, fostering an environment of collective growth and shared success.
This year, several members of the Parklife presented the marketing and branding section of the boot camp curriculum. Parklife’s curriculum empowers entrepreneurs to craft compelling brand narratives, execute strategic marketing campaigns and establish a robust marketing presence. This educational component ensures that startups not only develop viable business concepts but also acquire the skills to effectively communicate their brand’s unique value proposition. Parklife emerges as a true ally in the entrepreneurial journey, dedicated to propelling startups through tailored support.
The three organizations that Parklife has had the privilege to support for Demo Day and milestone projects for the 2023-2024 cohort include Delighted to Doula, TechSavvy and Wholly Informed Sex Ed (WISE).
Delighted to Doula: Eradicating Maternal Maternity
Delighted to Doula is on a mission to eradicate maternal mortality in communities with lower quality of care through their innovative Goal 366 program. This initiative offers evidence-based postpartum support with an anti-bias approach, providing education on baby care, feeding practices and crucial support for mothers’ recovery. The organization stands as a beacon, addressing the pressing issue of maternal mortality with compassion and expertise.
TechSavvy: Empower Minority Students
Founded in 2016 by Courtney Hamilton, TechSavvy is dedicated to empowering minority students by leveling the playing field through engaging, technical, and enjoyable curriculum design. Recognizing the importance of creating equal opportunity, TechSavvy equips students with the skills needed to thrive in the technological landscape. Courtney Hamilton’s vision has manifested into a powerful force driving positive change for students of color.
Wholly Informed Sex Ed (WISE): Promoting Inclusive Sexuality Education
WISE is committed to providing inclusive and age-appropriate sexuality in collaboration with parents, caregivers, schools and community organizations. The organization recognizes that sex education is a vital aspect of overall education, aiming to dispel myths and provide the honest answers to questions about sexuality. WISE stands as a crucial resource in providing positive and informed choices regarding sexual health.
Brian Castle, founder and CEO of Parklife shares, “The Social Innovation Accelerator not only serves as a launching pad for these remarkable organizations, but also exemplifies the collaborative spirit of the Dallas community coming together to drive positive change. As we celebrate the achievements of Delighted to Doula, TechSavvy, WISE, and the remaining fellows, we look forward to witnessing the impact they will undoubtedly have on their respective communities and beyond”.
For more information on The Pitch, visit https://unitedwaydallas.org/thepitch/.
