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865-0020-00L 1 Credits WBZ , NDS D-GESS

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Social Entrepreneurship – Driving Sustainability in Business

Does not take place this semester. Only for MAS/CAS in Global Cooperation and Sustainable Development students, as well as specialists with at least 24 months of practical experience in international cooperation. ETH doctoral students working on topics related to poverty reduction in low- and middle income countries may also be admitted. Registration only through the NADEL administration office.

VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-02-05 16:29:19

Abstract

This course introduces the concept of social entrepreneurship, understanding in which situations and under which conditions the concept can be applied, and the basics of developing a business strategy for a social enterprise.

Objective

This course introduces the concept of social entrepreneurship over three different blocks. The first part is dedicated to the definition, history, context and the successes and blockers of social entrepreneurship, including some real-world examples. In the second part the participants will learn to transform a social business idea into a concrete social business plan. The last block of the course is dedicated to the power of storytelling, where participants learn how to pitch their business ideas convincingly.

Content

– Definitions of “social entrepreneurship” and the difference with “entrepreneurship” – Get inspired by concrete examples of successful social ventures – Formulate a social business plan using the business canvas methodology – Learning to think and act like a social entrepreneur – The art and power of storytelling in an entrepreneurial context

General Information

Language: English
Levels: WBZ , NDS
Frequency: Yearly recurring

Examination

Type: ungraded semester performance

Course Components

Type	Title	Time & Place	Hours
lecture with exercise	Social Entrepreneurship – Driving Sustainability in Business Does not take place this semester. Block course: [DATUM]	No time listed	16 h semesterly

Offered In

MAS in Global Cooperation and Sustainable Development (The compulsory courses of NADEL are accessible only for students of the MAS in Global Cooperation and Sustainable Development and for qualified employees with at least two years experience in development cooperation and a Master's level or equivalent level of education as recognized by ETH. PhD students doing empirical research in development cooperation may be admitted "sur Dossier". The elective courses are open to master students of the ETH with registration/ waiting list. MAS students do have priority.)
- Programme Regulations 2021
  - Advanced Training Courses
CAS in Global Cooperation and Sustainable Development (Take place each spring semester and every second autumn semester (odd years).)
- Module