Google is forging a hybrid approach to its philanthropy efforts to help create greater success than the traditional corporate giving approach.

Google's foundation at $2 billion is the largest corporate foundation in the U.S. In addition to giving, it is making for-profit investments in companies that have potential positive social outcomes such as in health, renewable energy, and clean transportation.

It has invested in Aptera Motors, which is developing a radical, super aeordynamic electric vehicle which could revolutionize clean transportation.

This combination of tradtional giving and key venture captial investments shows how capitalism and philanthropy go hand in hand.

For more information, check out Kevin Delaney's Wall St. Journal article from Jan 17, 2008.

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