THE SOCIAL VENTURES RESIDENTIAL PROGRAMME

What?

The Social Ventures Residential is a three-day introduction to the social venture sector run in collaboration with the Cambridge Centre for Social Innovation and the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Programme.

This programme is designed to support students of all disciplines in developing sustainable and ethical projects with a positive social and environmental impact. The social ventures residential is open to all those eager to explore the possibilities of positive impact through innovation, whether you have an idea, an established venture or simply an enthusiasm for change.

In an inclusive, supportive and friendly atmosphere, you will have the opportunity to share and test your ideas with others and learn from the experience of successful social entrepreneurs.

You'll learn to assess opportunities, conduct market analyses and develop systems-thinking, prepare organisational or business plans, understand the basics of financing your initiative, pitch effectively, and manage dynamic teams.

For the three days, we provide breakfast, lunch and dinner in College, and we host one formal dinner during the residential, all free of charge. There is no cost to participating in the programme, but you are expected to arrange your own accommodation.

The programme is structured in two complementary phases:

  1. Residential (the week before Lent Term)

Kick of your understanding of social ventures with the three-day residential in January. The programme features dynamic lectures, interactive seminars, and collaborative study sessions. You'll explore and develop social entrepreneurial ideas individually and in teams, gaining invaluable insights into the initial stages of venture creation.

Mornings are devoted to mastering key concepts and frameworks through engaging lectures and thought-provoking discussions. Afternoons focus on hands-on development of entrepreneurial projects.

No extensive preparation is required—just bring your enthusiasm and ideas!

  1. Year-Round Learning and Growth (Over the Academic Year)

For the reminder of the academic year following the residential, you'll be able to participate in tailored events, workshops, and inspiring talks.

You'll benefit from personalised mentoring provided by visiting industry experts, successful visiting entrepreneurs, and accomplished research associates. Their diverse perspectives will help shape your entrepreneurial mindset and refine your project.

 

When?

January Residential and then throughout the academic year

Where?

King's College, Cambridge.

Do I get accommodation and meals?

We do not provide accommodation for this residential programme but all meals during the residential will be provided at King’s at no cost.

For whom?

  • You must be a E-Lab residential student or Mastercard Foundation Scholar (we do offer specific spaces beyond this by invitation – if you are interested in one of these spaces, please email us).

  • You must be able to commit to attend the January residential week in person.

  • Open to all academic backgrounds

  • Open to undergraduates, postgraduates, and postdocs

Sign up?

Applications are currently closed. The next application round will be assessed in November 2025.

Need more info?

Contact Kamiar Mohaddes.