14 Bicycle-Based Social Businesses

For me, there's nothing quite like a bike ride (as long as it's not freezing and there's no snow on the ground, I'm out there); so as Community Manager here at SocialBusiness.org, bicycle-based social businesses are a go.

The featured innovations blend purpose and profit -- and all have an environmentally friendly twist. From international bamboo bicycles to emissions-free delivery in London, England, these micro-trends are one initial step in the grand scheme that has to do with supporting infrastructure in cities that allows for a more widespread cycling participation rate, if you will.

In Ottawa, Canada, the bicycle shop Cycle Salvation creates jobs for unemployed people who have been shut out of traditional job markets. In a similar fashion to the Bicycle Academy, they also offer a place where the community can learn how to repair their own ride.