The Schwab Foundation for Social Entrepreneurship is the self-described "voice of social innovation." The primary goal of the Geneva-based not-for-profit is to advance global social entrepreneurship, which they achieve primarily through strategic connections.
Among the things The Schwab Foundation for Social Entrepreneurship does is identify 20-25 leading social entrepreneurs each year from regional selections, as well as from applicants in their Social Entrepreneur of the Year competitions. These entrepreneurs are then profiled on the website. They also go on to become part of the Schwab community, and the have the opportunity to connect with other social entrepreneurs and world leaders at the World Economic Forum.
Being a future-focused enterprise, the Schwab Foundation also works to identify emerging impact entrepreneurs under 40 with the Forum of Young Global Leaders. In addition, some Schwab social entrepreneurs receive the opportunity for a dream education thanks to the Foundation's scholarship programs with Harvard, Stanford, and INSEAD, The Business School for the World.
"The networking opportunities provided for Social Entrepreneurs by the Schwab Foundation have resulted in increased visibility, credibility, access to finance, partnerships, policy changes, media attention and an increased knowledge of global affairs," the website says.
"Social Entrepreneurs, in return, have inspired many business, political and media leaders at Forum events. Business leaders have set up social venture funds, started social entrepreneurship activities within their corporations, taken into account social innovations; and governments have passed legislation in favour of the creation of social enterprises."
Contact Information
Schwab Foundation Website
Schwab Foundation on Twitter
Schwab Foundation on Facebook
World Economic Forum Blog
Social Innovation Hubs
The Schwab Foundation for Social Entrepreneurship Offers a Voice
Trend Themes
1. Social Innovation - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Explore new ways to address social and environmental challenges through innovative solutions.
2. Strategic Connections - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Develop platforms and networks for fostering collaboration between social entrepreneurs, businesses, and policymakers.
3. Emerging Impact Entrepreneurs - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Identify and support young entrepreneurs under 40 who are creating positive social impact.
Industry Implications
1. Social Entrepreneurship - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Build sustainable and scalable business models that tackle societal problems while generating profits.
2. Education - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Provide access to quality education for social entrepreneurs through scholarship programs and partnerships with prestigious institutions.
3. Government - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Encourage policy changes and legislation supporting the creation of social enterprises.