Social Venture Institutes were created by Social Venture Network in 1996.  Since then, 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 Social Venture Network.

SBN has hosted a Social Venture Institute in Philadelphia every year since 2002.  Hundreds of entrepreneurs have been trained through this two-day educational event that teaches entrepreneurs how to face the day-to-day challenges of running a business that has a positive impact on the community and environment. SVI participants are first- or second-stage entrepreneurs who face challenges in developing an enterprise while maintaining a social or environmental mission.

Based on evaluations and testimonials, participants reflect that SVI is one of the best investments they’ve made in developing their enterprises. The combination of high quality mentors, a confidential and supportive environment, and a practical problem-solving format, enables participants to acquire a rich portfolio of skills, a plan to develop their organization, and a network of contacts to support their enterprise.  Special efforts have been made to promote SVI to minority and women entrepreneurs through direct outreach and partner organizations.

Read about the 2006 Social Venture Institute