Impact X
Our New Venture Modeling course is known as Impact X. It aligns with the United Nations' 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), a holistic framework for achieving sustainable development for all. In this program, you lead change by a forming startup that makes a profit, while solving social and/or environmental problems as identified by the SDGs.
What to Expect
You'll be cross-trained (think Navy SEAL training!) in creative design, business and technology so that you have the tools to form sustainability-focused startups. No prior technical skills or teams are required and diverse backgrounds are encouraged.
In these classes, you will:
- Lead change by forming startups that make a profit, while solving social and/or environmental problems as identified by the SDGs
- Practice pitching in both casual and professional environments
- Learn to use and leverage the technologies that spawned innovations such as Instagram, Uber and Spotify
- Move from passive learning to consequential, active learning
- Be mentored by successful business leaders such as Stuart Williams, our Social and Environmental Entrepreneur-in-residence
I loved this class! The instructor is phenomenal, it is very intellectually challenging, and makes you think on the next level.
—Previous ImpactX student
Recent Winner: Wonder
Wonder Mattress Pad is an innovative baby safety company. Student entrepreneurs developed a smart mattress pad for babies that can serve as a life saving monitoring tool, as well as a health data tracking service.
Mentors
You will have mentors to listen, advise and reflect with your team during the course of the project. While they are not there to solve problems themselves, they guide and advise you through their active engagement.
Giving Communities a ‘Pollpit’
Frequently Asked Questions
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Do I need to be a business student to join the class?
No! The class caters to all types of students, no matter the major. It is actually encouraged for non-business students to apply, as diverse skill sets and unique backgrounds are highly valuable in entrepreneurship.
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What project will I be working on?
Ideally, you work on a project you are passionate about. Ideas often change, so don't worry if you are coming into the class without an idea, or are forced to pivot.
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Will I own the intellectual property that I create?
The College of Charleston’s IP policy dictates the rules and processes used for the assignment of intellectual property. At this time, the College has no intention of claiming any ownership of any intellectual property or equity in your company.
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If the project I work on is successful, can we continue after the course ends?
Yes! Successful teams will be encouraged to establish and/or grow their business. In fact, our ENTR 360 - Launch X is a course dedicated to helping successful Impact X projects continue growing their foundation.