Social Innovation Conferences and Events
The Rustandy Center for Social Sector Innovation holds social impact events globally, offering insights into how the sector operates and helping our community members prepare to solve complex problems.
Upcoming Events
The Impact Capitalist Book Talk with Jim Sorenson
Thursday, September 3, 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. CDT
Gleacher Center, Room 621
Audience: open to Booth alumni and Booth students
Jim Sorenson, founder and chairman of the Sorenson Impact Foundation, has spent decades building companies, investing in mission-driven ventures, and advancing philanthropy while exploring how business leaders can do well while doing good.
In his forthcoming book, The Impact Capitalist, Sorenson shares his unique insights about the relationship between profits, purpose, and career success.
Join us on Thursday, September 3, for a conversation between Sorenson and Debra Schwartz, managing director of impact investments at the MacArthur Foundation, and learn what it takes to align financial and social goals.
Golub Capital Board Fellows Program
Audience: open to nonprofit practitioners and board members
The Golub Capital Board Fellows Program, run in partnership with Booth's Net Impact student group, matches your organization with a team of two to three Booth students who serve as nonvoting board members to advance strategic priorities for six months, at no cost.
Applications for the 2026 cohort close on September 13.
Rustandy Center and Polsky Center Open House
Tuesday, September 29, noon - 1:30 p.m. CDT
Harper Center, Suite 207
Audience: open to Booth students
Join the Polsky Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation and the Rustandy Center for Social Sector Innovation for an Open House. At the Open House, you will have the opportunity to learn more about the offerings at each of the centers. Staff from the Polsky Center and Rustandy Center will be in attendance to answer questions and discuss resources available to Booth students.
SNVC Kickoff
Thursday, October 1, 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. CDT
Harper Center, Room C-01
Audience: open to UChicago graduate students
Interested in applying to the SNVC? Come to our kick-off session to learn everything you need to know before submitting your application, ask questions, and connect with other students considering applying.
The SNVC is open to currently enrolled UChicago graduate students looking to launch a for-profit or nonprofit venture with a social mission at the core. Whether your idea is fully formed or still in progress, this session will help you figure out if the program is the right fit for you.
SNVC Team Building
Thursday, October 15, noon - 1:00 p.m. CDT
Harper Center, Room C-09
Audience: open to UChicago graduate students
Looking to join an SNVC team or need to round out yours? Join us for Team Building and connect with other students who are interested in the program. This is an informal mixer, so come ready to meet people, share what you're working on, and find out what teams are looking for. Whether you have a venture and need collaborators or you're looking to get involved with an existing team, this is a great opportunity to make those connections. Light refreshments will be provided.
SNVC Workshop and Quick Pitch
Wednesday, October 28, 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. CDT
Harper Center, Room C-09
Audience: open to UChciago graduate students
Getting ready to apply to the SNVC? Join us for an application workshop and quick pitch event to help you put your best foot forward before the deadline.
The first part of the event will walk you through the application process and give you a chance to ask questions before you submit. From there, teams interested in applying will have the opportunity to give a 5-minute pitch and get feedback before the real thing.
Whether you're still refining your application or just want to hear what other teams are working on, this is a great event to attend before the deadline closes.
