Miami University’s Social Impact Fund: Where Students Become Financial Activists

Let’s be real, folks – college is about more than just hitting the books and mastering the art of the all-nighter. It’s about finding your passion, making a difference, and maybe, just maybe, learning how to adult properly (still working on that last one, tbh). But what if you could do all that while also diving headfirst into the world of finance and social change? That’s where Miami University’s Social Impact Fund comes in, fam. Established in (wait for it) , this pioneering initiative is like the cool kid’s table of impact investing, and trust me, you want in.

A Crash Course in Changing the World, One Investment at a Time

Imagine a world where your money does more than just sit in a bank account, gathering virtual dust bunnies. A world where it actually goes out there and makes a difference, supporting businesses that are tackling some of the world’s toughest challenges. That’s the kind of world Miami University’s Social Impact Fund is building, one socially responsible investment at a time.

Housed within the Department of Entrepreneurship’s Center for Social Entrepreneurship (try saying that three times fast), the fund is all about giving students real-world experience in the ever-evolving landscape of impact investing. We’re talking hands-on learning, people. No stuffy lectures or dusty textbooks here. Instead, students get to roll up their sleeves and dive into the nitty-gritty of identifying, evaluating, and ultimately investing in promising social ventures. It’s like Shark Tank, but with a conscience (and probably less yelling).

Teaming Up for Good: The Flywheel Partnership

They say teamwork makes the dream work, and in the world of social impact, Miami University’s Social Impact Fund is teaming up with the best of the best. Enter Flywheel, a Cincinnati-based social entrepreneurship accelerator that’s basically the Beyoncé of its field (we’re talking fierce, innovative, and always on point).

This strategic partnership is a total game-changer, creating a direct pipeline of investment opportunities for the student-led fund. Specifically, the fund sets its sights on the cream of the crop – the high-potential startups participating in Flywheel’s prestigious “Elevator” cohort. We’re talking about ventures that are not only financially viable but also laser-focused on creating positive social change. It’s a win-win situation, folks.

Benefits Galore: Because Everyone Loves a Good Thing

Now, you might be thinking, “This all sounds great and all, but what’s in it for me?” Well, my friend, buckle up because the benefits of Miami University’s Social Impact Fund are about to blow your mind:

• Student Investors: For those budding social impact warriors out there, this is your chance to gain invaluable experience in the field. We’re talking due diligence, impact measurement, portfolio management – the whole shebang. These are the kind of skills that will make future employers sit up and take notice, setting you apart from the crowd and launching your career in social impact investing to stratospheric heights.