The Kansas City Social Venture Studio invests in social entrepreneurs with business models aimed at creating social, racial, and environmental change.
The application deadline is March 1, 2024.
It's a four-month program, offering business mentoring, cohort peer connections, a curriculum focused on social impact, technical assistance, and more, along with an unrestricted grant.
It's operated by Keystone Innovation District and funded by The Sunderland Foundation, initiated by the Economic Development Corporation of Kansas City and Downtown Council of Kansas City.
Benefits include grants ($10,000-$25,000), co-working office space, mentorship, media exposure, legal, financial, and marketing assistance, and peer and alumni support.
Entrepreneurs should be open to feedback, committed to creating change, participate in full-day Tuesday sessions from June-September 2024, operate in Kansas City for a minimum of one year post-program, and complete individual development goals.
Eligible applicants are full-time CEOs with a minimum viable product, revenue under $3 million, and a legal business entity. We encourage applications from diverse leaders, including BIPOC and/or female-led organizations.
Yes, it's free, thanks to The Sunderland Foundation and Kansas City businesses.
A social venture for us is an organization primarily focused on social impact through return on investment, not primarily dependent on philanthropic grants.
Yes, nonprofits can apply if they engage in revenue-generating activities to scale and reduce dependence on philanthropy.
You need to relocate for a minimum of one year post-program completion, with an invitation to become part of the Kansas City community.
Preference is given to organizations with co-founders and founders with senior leaders who can co-participate in the program. However, there have been solo entrepreneurs who successfully committed to and participated in the program.