Some of the nation's best minds are trying to bridge the digital divide between the haves and the have-nots. They ask whether we can create a new philanthropy that will exist in our new economy and better serve the communities in which we all live.

Here in Silicon Valley, that issue has been put in an exciting context called "venture philanthropy," a model that unites the worlds of venture capital investment with traditional philanthropic practices.

This model forges new links between the private and nonprofit sectors by combining principles of venture capital investing and traditional grant-making. It brings the strength of both to organizations and ideas that are seeking new ways to transition into the future.

Asset Management and the Johnson family are believers and participants in this approach through their financial and active involvement in groups carrying this message forth.

Currently they do not accept unsolicited proposals for funding.

For additional information on Venture Philanthropy please read "Doing Well and Doing Good" by Tarah Evans.