Welcome to another episode of Awarepreneurs with your host, Paul Zelizer. In today's special solo episode, Paul dives into three critical topics that will shape the landscape for social entrepreneurs and climate tech founders as we head into 2025. We'll explore the game-changing $58 billion New Mexico Permanent Fund and its impact on the state's thriving start-up ecosystem, the anticipated headwinds and challenges for impact-driven businesses in the coming year, and the importance of embracing the season of winter to rest and resource ourselves. Tune in as Paul shares insights, strategies, and personal experiences to help you navigate these transformative times and prepare for a successful year ahead. Don't forget to subscribe and leave a review to help more people discover the path to positive impact through values-based business.

This episode is sponsored by the coaching company of the host, Paul Zelizer. Consider a Strategy Session if you can use support growing your impact business.

Resources mentioned in this episode include:

2025 Social Entrepreneur Headwinds Episode Transcript with Paul Zelizer

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You can read the full transcript of this episode here

Key topics Covered in 2025 Social Entrepreneur Headwinds Episode with Paul Zelizer

Topics Covered in the Podcast Episode

Introduction

Welcome and Purpose of the Podcast
Request for Subscriptions and Reviews
Announcement of Solo Episode by Paul Zelizer

Major Topics Discussed in the Episode

New Mexico Impact Startup Ecosystem
- Introduction to Rapid Growth in New Mexico
- New Mexico Permanent Fund
  - Overview of the $58 Billion Fund
  - Example: Climate Solutions Venture Fund ($50 Million)
  - Focus on Underrepresented Founders
- Impact of the Fund on Local Startups
  - Examples of New Mexico-based Startups
  - NM Climate Meetup Initiative
  - Upcoming Interview with Representative Andrea Romero
2025 Headwinds for Impact Entrepreneurs
- Political and Economic Climate
  - Effects of Donald Trump's Second Term
  - Decreased Funding for Climate and Sustainable Initiatives
  - DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) Pushback
- Global Trends
  - Reduction in VC Funding by 38% (2024 compared to 2023)
  - Shifts in Public Discourse and Funding Priorities
- Strategies to Navigate Headwinds
  - Running Lean Operations
  - Diversifying Funding Sources
    - Consideration of Grants
  - Strengthening Local Ties
    - Local Community Engagement
  - Refining Messaging
    - Focus on Practical, Immediate Benefits
Embracing Winter to Rest and Resource for the New Year
- Concept of Wintering
  - Reference to Catherine May's Book "Wintering"
- Importance of Rest and Natural Slowing Down
  - Examples from Paul's Personal Life (e.g., Trail Running)
- Encouragement to Resource Oneself for 2025
  - Rest Without Guilt
  - Setting Intentions for Reflection and Resource Gathering
Upcoming Break and Future Plans
- Announcement of Month-Long Podcast Break
  - Dates of Break: Until January 7th
- Call to Action
  - Request for Episode Ideas from Listeners
  - Significance of Listener Contribution to Episode Topics in 2024

Conclusion

Gratitude for Listener Support in 2024
Intentions to Support and Provide Resources for 2025
- Mention of Paul's Strategy Session Package
Final Encouragement and Sign-off

353 | $58 Billion Funds, 2025 Headwinds and a Winter Break with Paul Zelizer