In mid September, 140 business leaders and social entrepreneurs gathered on Cortes Island to share challenges, successes, and experiences with peers during the 16th Annual Social Venture Institute (SVI) at Hollyhock.

The unique mix of participants, industries and sectors made this a dynamic gathering.  We were thrilled to welcome 82 first time participants and welcome back seasoned faculty and attendees.  Once again, Hollyhock provided the perfect space for us to conspire, create and collaborate! 

Here is what this year's participants had to say about it:

“I came out of SVI with an incredible network of collaborators and friends and a renewed inspiration to advance meaningful work in the name of social change and environmental stewardship.

“I have never encountered such an incredible group that blends hard-nosed business acumen with a desire to change the world in a positive way.”

"SVI operates on several levels - the deep conversations, the business strategies, and the joy of sharing a unique and fun experience."

“As a first year SVI participant, I embarked on this conference not entirely sure what to expect or what I could offer... I came out of it with an incredible network of collaborators and friends and a renewed inspiration to advance meaningful work in the name of social change and environmental stewardship. I hope to return year after year.” 

“If you care about people and business, this will be the best conference you will ever attend.”

“We feel so fortunate to have discovered SVI and more so to have had the opportunity to learn from such incredible people. The experience gave us new-found energy, focused direction & an amazing network of supporters.” – Case Study Presenter

“I got back way more than I gave.” – True Confession Speaker

People are talking! Check out the recent coverage of SVI:

Vancouver is Awesome's Bob Kronbauer recapped his SVI experience in a three part series.

(1) The Social Venture Institute at Hollyhock (1 of 3): Getthing There

(2) The Social Venture Institute at Hollyhock (2 of 3): The Place

(3) The Social Venture Insitute at Hollyhock (3 of 3): The People

SEE Change Magazine's co-founder, Elisa Birnbaum wrote this witty blog post about her first SVI Hollyhock and another about SVI co-presenter, Joel Solomon.

SVI: a refreshing twist on social change

In Conversation with Joel Solomon

Axiom News' President, Fraser Wilson commissioned the Axiom team to interview and share stories of a few SVI participants he met during his first SVI Hollyhock.

(1) Air Miles for Social Change Director Aims to Harness Power of Business to Make Better World
Broad-appeal product, partnerships critical to scaling social business: Owen Ward  

(2) SVI: An Unconventional, Necessary Approach to Enterprise Building
Sustainival executive producer Joey Hundert credits 4-day forum as advancing social business 

(3) Social Entrepreneur Finds Tribe in Social Venture Forum
Support for leaders in movement, who face unprecedented challenges, is noteworthy: Mike Rowlands

(4) Nicole Bridger Creates Socially Conscious Clothing
Company shows designer labels can be conscious 

(5) Building Lasting Relationships: SVI Nourishes Social Entrepreneurs
Co-ordinator Heidi Hartman says developing space for participants to be vulnerable is rewarding career 

(6) SVI Attracts Talent to Change the World through Business
Co-founder of Give Something Back Office Supplies inspired by event convening social purpose entrepreneurs
 

(7) Junxion Strategy in the Exciting Playing Field of Social Venture
Canadian consulting firm finds India ripe for social business 

(8) Building a Better World through Investing in Women
Passion, awareness and programs moving women entrepreneurship forward 

(9) Social Venture Institute Creates Transformative Experiences
Event convenes socially-conscious entrepreneurs, investors and leaders

Check out some amazing photos from SVI Hollyhock 2011 on the SVI Hollyhock Flickr Group.

Stay Connected:

Are you interested in staying up to date in the plans for the next SVI Hollyhock? Email svi@renewalpartners.com and request to have your name added to the SVI enews list.

Also, join us on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/SVIHollyhock.

SAVE THE DATES FOR SVI HOLLYHOCK 2012 - SEPTEMBER 12TH - 16TH!