ESADE Business & Law School and the European Venture Philanthropy Association (EVPA) have teamed up to develop a joint programme entitled ‘Fundamentals on Venture Philanthropy and Impact Investing’. Venture philanthropy has emerged in Europe as a new trend in the management sector and where the soul of philanthropy matches the spirit of investment: resulting in a long-term approach to creating social impact. This one-of-a-kind European training course for managers will provide participants with effective tools for a high-engagement approach to social investment and grant making – as needed across a wide range of social purpose organisations (SPOs).

Training for impact-centric funding

‘Numerous surveys tell us that the venture philanthropy and impact investment sector is a dynamic and rapidly evolving sector,’ says Bernard Uyttendaele, CEO of EVPA. ‘A diversity of players support a growing number of organisations and companies with societal purposes. Many players are active in the sector, including foundations, impact investing funds, financial institutions, family offices and corporates. Nevertheless, while European societies need new and innovative models to tackle societal issues, SPOs lack stable funding, capacity, and partnerships,’ he added. 

From the academic perspective, Lisa Hehenberger, lecturer at ESADE and expert on venture philanthropy, defines the course as ‘the best opportunity to learn how to develop an impact-centric funding strategy in venture philanthropy and impact investment. During the course, participants will understand the entire investment process, including techniques used for due diligence, closing and structuring deals, monitoring and reporting, governance of social purpose organisations, and how to manage an impactful exit and portfolio management,’ Hehenberger explained.

Creating long-term social impact

The course ‘Fundamentals on Venture Philanthropy and Impact Investing’ brings together ESADE’s academic strengths with EVPA’s network and field experience. The course combines online learning materials with two days of face-to-face interaction at ESADE’s campus in Barcelona on 14-15 September with leading lecturers and practitioners. During the residential course in Barcelona, experienced venture philanthropy and impact investors will share their knowledge on key practices, including impact management and non-financial support. 

The course targets professionals from foundations, impact investing funds, banks and financial institutions, public administrations, NGOs, charities, and corporations with an interest in developing an impact-centric funding approach.