Talk Business Magazine September 2014 | Page 68

PROMOTIONAL FEATURE Do you have an idea that could tackle social problems in new and innovative ways? You may be a person with a brilliant idea or are part of an organisation or company looking to grow and increase the delivery potential of their social venture. The complex social problems our world now faces require an innovative and inspired approach to areas such as; criminal justice and crime prevention, safety and wellbeing, cultural change, job opportunities and community development. There are many organisations that are currently working to combat the problems in these areas, but may need access to investment, added support or additional skills in order to push for positive social change. The University of Northampton has been working in their unique capacity as the only Ashoka U Changemaker Campus in the UK to deliver socially innovative opportunities for all. Through multiple avenues of engagement with social enterprises and other organisations the university has supported previous candidates to attract new contracts in excess of £6m and investment in excess of £500k. The latest round of its Social Venture Builder (SVB) programme has incorporated the expertise and experience developed through years of engagement with social enterprise into an ‘incubator programme’ that works to build skills and competence, alongside developing investable and marketable social enterprising solutions. Using both an academic approach and work based learning, the SVB allows candidates to continue working and developing their organisation as they progress through the programme. Ideas and organisations from any sector are welcome to apply, and can target any area of social innovation whether local or global. If you think you’ve got what it takes to become a real game changer, here is your chance to develop your ideas further, and to develop something that will be innovative, ground breaking and financially sustainable. For more information go to: www.northampton.ac.uk/social-venture-builder Queries please contact [email protected] fullpageadbase.indd 29 29/07/2014 09:21