Launch a Startup.
Change the World.
The Social Venture Academy at BYU
Launching student startups (nonprofit or for-profit) that solve social problems.
Develop skills, receive mentorship, and pitch for up to $24,500 funding.
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Learn
Join the SVA class and learn how to build out your venture.
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Earn
Pitch your business through the SVA for a chance to earn funding.
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Improve
Work with a mentor to improve your business.
What is a Social Venture?
In our case, it is a business that meets the following three criteria:
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The business must address, alleviate, or solve a social issue.
Creating impact is a core function of the venture, not a secondary objective or natural byproduct. For example, Ecoscraps converts food waste into composted fertilizer. The core product reduces waste and methane, a core greenhouse gas. The company does not simply give 10% of profits to recycling efforts.
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The venture must help a vulnerable population or the environment.
Qualified ventures improve the lives of people who are disadvantaged or oppressed in a systemic, societal, or cultural way. For example, Fundación Paraguaya has an agricultural high school that teaches organic agriculture and business skills to poor indigenous youth. The company does not target middle- or upper-class youth.
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A core part of the venture’s intervention requires funders who recognize the need to work with vulnerable populations and measure outcome data to ensure positive changes in their customers’ lives.
For example, Resol needed initial capital from funders who believed—unlike standard angel or VC firms—in the organization’s mission to help female Venezuelan refugees build their own business.
Meet the Team
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![Cole McClure, Male Student Employee]()
Cole McClure
STRATEGY, PRE-MEDICINE MAJOR
Cole, a Strategic Management major and pre-med student, is on a mission to enhance healthcare in underserved regions and promote environmental sustainability in established businesses. When not assisting the SVA, he's on the tennis court with the team or crafting business ventures. His fervor and dedication shine through, and he's eager to help you succeed in building sustainable social ventures!
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![Ethan Strong, Male Student Employee]()
Ethan Strong
ECONOMICS MAJOR
Ethan, studying economics with minors in entrepreneurship and nonprofit management, focuses on mental health awareness and childhood development worldwide. He's an adventurous spirit who relishes museums, hikes, southern barbecue, and aiding others. Ethan is excited to collaborate with you to develop the skills needed to tackle social issues.
