SAN DIEGO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Classy, the world’s first operating system for social impact, announced today that it has been recognized by Fast Company as a Top 10 Most Innovative Company in Social Good, in its annual ranking of the world’s Most Innovative Companies.
“Everyone at Classy is incredibly honored to be recognized as an innovator for social good, but at the same time we want to pass along the recognition to our amazing customers and partners, who help us push the boundaries of our own innovation every day,” said Scot Chisholm, CEO and cofounder of Classy. “Social impact organizations are tackling some of the world’s biggest problems, yet they have been underserved from a software and technology perspective for decades. With their help, we’re making it our mission every day to deliver world-class technology solutions that drive the social sector forward and help accelerate social progress.”
Classy originally began as a fundraising pub crawl in 2006, organized by friends, with the goal of raising money for cancer research. The success of the first fundraiser inspired the founders to host dozens of fundraising events over the next four years for local San Diego nonprofits, with a specific focus on engaging the Millennial generation in social issues. During their time hosting fundraising events, the founders experienced first-hand the lack of online fundraising options available and were inspired to develop their own prototype.
“From day one, the Classy platform has been developed through the eyes of the supporter, with a focus on giving the donor, fundraiser or advocate a remarkable experience on behalf of the organization,” said Chisholm. “The local nonprofits that we were working with immediately saw the value of this unique approach and asked to use our app further. Once this initial group of organizations saw success, we knew we were really on to something and decided to open it up for any nonprofit organization to use.”
In 2011, Classy launched as a technology company and since then has helped social enterprises all over the world raise hundreds of millions of dollars to tackle the world’s biggest social problems. In 2015 alone, donations made on the Classy platform grew over 110% compared to 2014, with donations coming from supporters in 194 countries. Mobile usage of the Classy platform also continued its climb in 2015, with over 50% of visits coming from a mobile device.
More than 2,500 nonprofits of all sizes leverage Classy’s online fundraising, supporter engagement and performance management solutions to scale their operations and impact, including Heifer International, Oxfam America, National Geographic, Team Rubicon, FEED, and Pencils of Promise.
Classy also hosts the Collaborative, a biennial experience showcasing today’s top social innovations. The Collaborative has become a signature event in the industry, bringing together global leaders and innovators to discuss the world’s most pressing social problems. The event culminates with the Classy Awards, one of the most prestigious award ceremonies in the social sector recognizing excellence in social innovation.
Most Innovative Companies is one of Fast Company’s most significant and highly anticipated editorial efforts of the year. To produce the 2016 list, the magazine’s editors spent a full year gathering and analyzing data on companies around the globe. “This year’s package—which includes top ten lists in 27 sectors—emphasizes the breadth of companies with progressive, agile business models, cultures of creativity, and ability to adapt in today’s fast-paced world,” said Fast Company editor Robert Safian.
About Classy
Classy is the world's first operating system for social impact with the goal of solving social problems more effectively and efficiently. Since launching in 2011, Classy has helped more than 2,500 social enterprises including Oxfam America, World Food Program USA, and National Geographic to raise hundreds of millions of dollars. Classy also hosts the Collaborative and Classy Awards to recognize excellence in social innovation. Based in San Diego, CA, Classy employs a staff of over 150 people and is backed by investors including Mithril and Salesforce Ventures. For more information, visit www.classy.org or follow Classy on Twitter: @Classy.
About Fast Company
Fast Company is the world’s leading progressive business media brand, with a unique editorial focus on innovation in technology, ethical economics, leadership, and design. Headquartered in New York City, Fast Company is published by Mansueto Ventures LLC, one of the U.S.’s leading media companies.