Community of Practice
Social Venture Building
Social Venture Building applies knowledge exchange and commercialisation approaches to create ventures that deliver social, environmental and economic impact alongside financial sustainability.
This Community of Practice explores how universities can develop and support the full spectrum of social ventures emerging from research, including charities, community interest companies (CICs), co-operatives, not-for-profit organisations, social enterprises, limited companies, and impact-led licensing models.
The group brings together knowledge exchange professionals who support academics in translating research and expertise into impactful organisations, products and services. Through shared learning and peer support, members can exchange practical insights, discuss common challenges and explore emerging approaches to social venture development.
Our Community of Practice was developed in partnership with the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) and builds on our longstanding work supporting the commercialisation of SHAPE disciplines. While its origins lie in supporting social sciences, arts and humanities, the group now welcomes colleagues from all disciplines interested in developing impact-driven ventures from research.
Join the Community
By joining this Community of Practice, you will:
- Connect with peers working in social venture development and impact-led innovation.
- Share challenges, experiences and practical approaches.
- Learn from case studies and examples from across the sector.
- Explore new models for translating research into social and economic impact.
- Help shape discussions around the future of social venture building in higher education.
Themes
Making your services clear and aligned with the values of your academics.
Legal Structures, Financial Plans, Identifying Customers, Assessing Value in Research
Training and development as a KE professional working with impactful ventures
Engage with sector moves to establish metrics and representation of our work, including international insights.