Are you a social entrepreneur eager to make a real difference while ensuring your business thrives? The Start with Impact coaching program is here to help. This workshop is crafted for leaders like you who are passionate about social change and want to fine-tune their business and impact strategies, boost their storytelling skills, and connect with a supportive community of changemakers. Whether you’re new to the game or building on past experiences, we’ve got you covered.
We understand that you may have some questions about what to expect. We’ve compiled answers to some frequently asked questions about Start with Impact. Read on to learn more about what the program offers, what the journey looks like and how it can benefit you and your social enterprise.
What are the topics covered by the Start with Impact program?
All 6 modules are listed on the program page. To learn about the journey in more detail and get a sneak peek into some content, check out this clip from our June 18th webinar.
Visit the program registration page to see details about the modules , testimonials and next session dates.
Who are the program coaches?
Zahra Qureshi and Brooke Gordon. Both have extensive experience with strategy for small businesses and non-profits and are committed to social impact work. Check out their LinkedIn pages and our webinar to learn more about their experience and what they bring to the program.
Does the program cover how to create an effective elevator pitch for a social enterprise?
Absolutely! Our program modules include opportunities to clarify your mission and strategy and then work on your pitch. We provide a framework for effectively addressing stakeholders and highlighting your focus on being a social enterprise. The script includes support for discussing the system you are working in, defining your balance between purpose and profit, highlighting impact goals and achievements, and more details specific to social enterprises.
Will the program be useful if I have already been through an incubator program?
Start with Impact builds on traditional business strategy, so if you have already participated in an incubator program, this will not be a repeat, and you can draw on and build on the business knowledge you have gained. Our lessons and resources are unique and customized for social enterprises. You can get started with our customized social enterprise canvas model here.
Where does the program take place?
The program takes place entirely online. Sessions are held on Zoom, and participants are welcome from anywhere in Canada and the world. Sessions take place times that are convenient for participants across North America.
Can I access the resources and templates provided after the program ends?
Yes! We provide a set of templates that form the strategic roadmap for your social enterprise. Our participants continue to use these resources for strategic planning beyond the program.
All the slide decks, frameworks, and recommended readings are provided for you and are available for download. The content is shared each week before the module and is available until two weeks after the last module so you can download and save it all for future use.
Will I receive a certificate upon program completion?
Once you complete the 6 modules, you will receive a certificate of completion with your name and the name of your social enterprise organization to recognize your commitment and achievement.
Will there be any opportunities to network with other participants?
Absolutely! Each cohort has a small, curated group of changemakers. There is lots of time to share and build connections with other participants and the coaches. Past participants have stayed connected and continue to collaborate. We also support alumni from different cohorts with events to connect and continue to share the journey.
Is there anything we need to do to get ready before the program starts?
No. Just register and mark your calendars. You are the expert on the work you are doing. Bring your ideas, insights and vision for the impact you want to create. Our program is an excellent fit if you have:
– A leadership role in a for-profit, non-profit or sole proprietorship
– Focus on both generating revenue and impact
– 1-5 years of experience working on programs or products/services
– A commitment to support underserved communities and/or the environment
– Strategic goals that are open to innovation in social enterprise models and scaling
What if I miss a session?
You will receive the content, including slides and all resources, in the participant drive. We recap and reflect at the beginning of each session to help participants stay on track. We do not share the session recordings since participants share a lot of personal and strategic information as part of the reflection, coaching, and feedback process.
Will I have the opportunity to present my social enterprise and receive feedback? Will my work be evaluated during the program?
You will get the opportunity to brainstorm and share in every session for feedback and support. We work with you to apply every topic to your work. We also have recap and sharing sessions where you can revisit, request feedback on the most relevant topics to your next steps and ask for help with key next steps. We may ask you to prepare and present some of your work, such as a mini pitch, to help refine your thought process. Our focus is to support your strategic growth with constructive feedback and resources. There is no formal submission or evaluation of homework.
What kind of technological setup do I need to participate in the program?
All sessions are on Zoom, and the resources are uploaded to Google Drive. You need a working computer with a video camera and microphone to participate in each session. You must also register for the program with a working email address to receive all communication, session invites, and resources.
What is the cost?
The cost of the program is $595 plus HST with some community discounts available through our partners.
The course offers 6 modules of coaches, 15+ resources with frameworks and examples specifically designed for social enterprise, and dedicated time with peers and coaches to work on your strategy and get feedback.
The program delivers over $1,500 in value. The cost is subsidized to ensure social entrepreneurs can access and benefit from these resources.
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Ready to elevate your social enterprise and amplify your impact? With expert coaches Zahra Qureshi and Brooke Gordon by your side, you’ll gain valuable knowledge and practical tools to drive your mission forward. Don’t miss out on the chance to join a community of passionate social entrepreneurs and make a lasting difference.
Are you interested in learning more? Visit the program page for more details, read testimonials, and register. If you have any questions, contact Zahra Qureshi at zahra@socialventurecircuit.ca. Join us and start making an impact today!
