Social Ventures Exchange

The University's Social Ventures Exchange (SVx) connects researchers interested in creating impact via a social enterprise or social purpose venture – in other words – a 'business for good'.

Learn how University of Melbourne researchers with ideas for social purpose startups can connect with resources, expertise and support at all stages of the impact journey.

What is a social purpose venture?

Social enterprises and social purpose ventures are types of businesses that exist to fulfil an identified social mission. Their aim is to provide a social, environmental or community benefit delivered via a financially-sustainable entity.

Social purpose ventures can provide an innovative commercial model for researchers looking to create positive social change by putting their research insights into practice.

What is Social Ventures Exchange (SVx)?

Many aspects of founding and growing a social venture are the same as those involved in any type of startup company. The University of Melbourne has a comprehensive ecosystem which supports you to take your research idea or discovery out into the world via a startup pathway .

We also recognise there are some steps along the way where you may need some additional support specifically tailored to a social venture. Our Social Ventures Exchange (SVx) can connect you to resources, expertise and support at all stages of your impact journey.

We can help you determine if a social venture is a viable model to create and sustain the impact you want to see.

Events and Resources available in 2024

In 2024 we will be offering a series of masterclasses and access to online resources designed specifically for social purpose ventures.

If you're a University of Melbourne researcher interested in creating a social purpose venture, or finding out more about our support, please get in touch.

Get in touch

Carlie Rogers
Social Purpose Ventures and Knowledge and Technology Transfer HASS Lead
University of Melbourne Research Innovation and Commercialisation