Irish Impact

Social Entrepreneurship Conference 2012

Welcome to the Irish Impact Social Entrepreneurship Conference 2012!

This event is dedicated to SOCIAL ENTREPRENEURSHIP, a movement that continues to spark dialogue across the globe.  Not only is its very definition much debated, but its viability as a sustainable poverty alleviation strategy is much discussed, as well. 

In our view, social entrepreneurship is a landscape that includes the innovative and evolving business enterprises such as microfinance, microenterprise development, bottom-of-the-pyramid markets, fair trade and the like.

We believe social entrepreneurship is a vital economic force that links business innovation and social value. 

Social entrepreneurs are developing new pathways for the most vulnerable and disenfranchised among us to access markets, resources and services, whether in the public health arena, education or economic development.

The Irish Impact Social Entrepreneurship Conference 2012 seeks to unite social innovators who are developing new business models, whether for-profit, nonprofit or hybrid enterprises, in diverse industries with likeminded students who are searching for concrete examples and avenues to address societal needs.

Likewise, we want to facilitate connections and networking among social entrepreneurs and potential funding organizations, including corporate and nonprofit foundations, private equity and social venture capitalists, and individuals.

We promise a stimulating agenda and an energizing 24 hours on the beautiful University of Notre Dame campus.  We challenge participants to leave the conference with more than just inspiration, new ideas and connections, which we promise to deliver, but with a plan to make an impact with your particular passion in your particular part of the world, wherever that may be.