Apply for Social Venture Institute

Posted by on August 18, 2006

We are now accepting applications for Case Studies for this year?s Social Venture Institute, to be held November 3-4 at The Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania. A Case Study Application is attached to this e-mail; applications are due via e-mail by Tuesday, September 12th.

Since 1996, Social Venture Institutes (SVI) have offered the leaders of socially responsible businesses and innovative nonprofits a forum in which to air their business problems and receive expert advice and mentoring by leading members of the Social Venture Network, a national network of successful social entrepreneurs. SVI was designed to provide an interactive and affordable way for socially conscious business ventures to explore ways to succeed. The combination of high-quality mentors, a confidential and supportive environment, and a practical problem-solving format ensures that participants leave with a rich portfolio of skills, a plan to grow their socially responsible businesses, and a network of contact to support their journey.

Case Studies are the core of the Social Venture Institute model and where some of the greatest learning happens. In selecting case studies, we look for several key components: enterprises at various stages of growth, well-framed and articulated problem statements, and opportunities to draw larger lessons for the whole group. We ask you to focus on one major strategic challenge that you are currently facing.

Please choose a challenge that fits into one of these categories:
Sales and Marketing: Overcoming Sales & Marketing Challenges
Managing Organizational Growth: Human Resources and Management Transitions
Business Financing: Raising Equity and Debt Capital

Full instructions are included in the Case Study Application.

Even if your application is not chosen as a case study, you will still have the chance to get feedback on your business issue during the Problem Solving Sessions if you attend the Social Venture Institute.

Questions should be directed to Leanne Krueger-Braneky, SBN Director, at leanne@sbnphiladelphia.org or 215-386-5211 ext. 104.