Our vision is to see a world powered by passionate people, creating real and tangible change throughout society and in their communities. We are an innovative learning community that incubates, accelerates and celebrates the people who have the potential and commitment to making that change happen. We call them social entrepreneurs: everyday people committed to doing extraordinary things, creating positive change through projects and businesses with a social or environmental mission. 

2012

SCHOOL FOR SOCIAL ENTREPRENEURS INCUBATOR PROGRAM

Here’s what you’ll want to know before you decide if you and SSE are a good fit for each other in 2012. Enjoy the read and get in touch if you’ve got questions!

the shape of 2012

In 2012 we are offering up to 60 social entrepreneurs from around Australia a place on our 9-month School for Social Entrepreneurs (SSE) Incubator Program.

The selected social entrepreneurs will be taken on a tailored learning journey, commencing March 2012, helping them grow their social or environmental idea, project or business.

The 2012 program has a new structure that allows for those who live outside of Melbourne or Sydney, where our two 2012 programs are run from, to participate with more ease than ever before.

The program is made up of seven three-day face-to-face blocks, and the other elements of the program are time and place flexible. 

We’ve also added new elements to the 2012 program, aimed at providing a new level of support, challenge and empowerment.

“IT’S BOTH AN ABSOLUTE HONOUR AND HUMBLING EXPERIENCE TO BE PART OF SSE. THE CALIBRE OF THE TEACHERS, STAFF, MY FELLOW STUDENTS AND THE PROJECTS THEY ARE DELIVERING ARE MIND-BLOWING” - JOHN PETERSEN, FOUNDER OF LOCAL

CHAMPIONS, 2011 SSE STUDENT

incubating social entrepreneurs growing projects for good

what’s where:the basics 2

program design principles 2program dates 3our approach to learning 3program elements 3-4fellows network 4what you bring 5next steps 5

program design principles

These are at the heart of the unique learning experience we offer.

1. Student centered Our programs are designed around our students needs to maximise their development and that of their project.

2. Action-learning Learning by doing is central to our programs. We prioritise lived experience over theory and believe growth accelerates when ideas, insights and learnings are put in to action.

3. Nurturing innovation Our programs support participants to see and do things differently including adapt and develop more effective entrepreneurial behaviours.

4. Peer and community learning We nurture real connections between changemakers and the emergence of communities of learning, support and collaboration that are sustainable beyond our programs.

5. Student-led learning We empower individuals to lead and direct their own learning, based on what they need to know, when they need to know it.

6. Working with the eco-system Our programs are designed to make the most of relationships and opportunities within the wider changemaker community.

7. Development of the individual in the context of their projectOur programs support the personal growth and development of the social entrepreneur within the context of their project, as an effective way of producing sustainable results.

the basicsWho is the program for?We’re looking for great people with a socially or environmentally motivated project, currently at the start-up stage, who are:

✓ passionate

✓ action-oriented

✓ committed   

✓ “people” people

✓ entrepreneurial

✓ actively in-service to others

What qualifications do I need?SSE does not require applicants to have any specific qualifications. We ask only that you are enthusiastic, determined and committed – driven by your cause or project as much as driving it! In recruitment, we are seeking people with an entrepreneurial mindset, who are committed to a social mission, and who understand the community they are aiming to serve. 

Are there eligibility criteria? Yes, to be eligible for the program applicants must: ✓ Have an idea/project that

you are starting or growing which has a community or environmental benefit. 

✓ Demonstrate passion, drive and commitment to your idea/project. 

✓ Have ownership of your idea/project and autonomy for decision-making.

✓ Demonstrate at least some initial actions you have taken toward establishing your project.

✓ Be able to commit to the program schedule of dates.  

What will I get during the 9-months?Where do we start! While everyone will report different outcomes and areas of growth, as all students are on their own unique learning journey, you can expect to see results in the areas of personal effectiveness, project acceleration and community building. So, you can expect:✓ Increased personal

effectiveness as a social entrepreneur.

✓ Support around developing your project or business and the opportunity to develop a solid business plan.

✓ A community and network that brings unlimited potential to grow and develop within.

“AT SSE MY IDEA TRANSFORMED TO A BRAND WITH A LEGAL STRUCTURE AND THEN TO AN ORGANISATION WITH FUNDING AND OUR FIRST EMPLOYEE.”- MICHAEL COMBS, FOUNDER OF CAREERTRACKERS, 2009-10 SSE STUDENT

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program datesThis is the schedule for the mandatory face-to-face blocks for both the Melbourne andSydney programs.

At the application stage you will choose which of the two programs you wish to enrol in.

All blocks run from Monday to Wednesday.

Make note of the National Study Blocks which will require interstate travel.

block type melbourne sydneyprogram datesThis is the schedule for the mandatory face-to-face blocks for both the Melbourne andSydney programs.

At the application stage you will choose which of the two programs you wish to enrol in.

All blocks run from Monday to Wednesday.

Make note of the National Study Blocks which will require interstate travel.

Group Block March 26 - 28Location: Melbourne

March 19 - 21Location: Sydney

program datesThis is the schedule for the mandatory face-to-face blocks for both the Melbourne andSydney programs.

At the application stage you will choose which of the two programs you wish to enrol in.

All blocks run from Monday to Wednesday.

Make note of the National Study Blocks which will require interstate travel.

Group Block May 7 - 9Location: Melbourne

April 30 - May 2Location: Sydney

program datesThis is the schedule for the mandatory face-to-face blocks for both the Melbourne andSydney programs.

At the application stage you will choose which of the two programs you wish to enrol in.

All blocks run from Monday to Wednesday.

Make note of the National Study Blocks which will require interstate travel.

National Study Block June 18 - 20Location: Sydney

June 18 - 20Location: Sydney

program datesThis is the schedule for the mandatory face-to-face blocks for both the Melbourne andSydney programs.

At the application stage you will choose which of the two programs you wish to enrol in.

All blocks run from Monday to Wednesday.

Make note of the National Study Blocks which will require interstate travel.

Group Block August 6 - 8Location: Melbourne

July 30 - August 1Location: Sydney

program datesThis is the schedule for the mandatory face-to-face blocks for both the Melbourne andSydney programs.

At the application stage you will choose which of the two programs you wish to enrol in.

All blocks run from Monday to Wednesday.

Make note of the National Study Blocks which will require interstate travel.

National Study Block September 10 - 12Location: Melbourne

September 10 - 12Location: Melbourne

program datesThis is the schedule for the mandatory face-to-face blocks for both the Melbourne andSydney programs.

At the application stage you will choose which of the two programs you wish to enrol in.

All blocks run from Monday to Wednesday.

Make note of the National Study Blocks which will require interstate travel.

Group Block October 22 - 24Location: Melbourne

October 15 - 17Location: Sydney

program datesThis is the schedule for the mandatory face-to-face blocks for both the Melbourne andSydney programs.

At the application stage you will choose which of the two programs you wish to enrol in.

All blocks run from Monday to Wednesday.

Make note of the National Study Blocks which will require interstate travel.

Group Block November 26 - 28 Location: Melbourne

November 19 - 21Location: Sydney

our learning approachSSE’s learning process is powered by action and reflection, and is far removed from traditional educational and training programs. There are no lectures, but seasoned social entrepreneurs to question and learn from. There are no textbooks, but real life case studies and a project visit to see a social enterprise in action. There are facilitated action learning sets, personal coaching and lots of opportunities to learn from peers and skills experts.

This provides a unique student-centred package of support and development. We work to help our social entrepreneurs develop the skills they need to grow their projects, and help them shape their learning to give them the sense of confidence and legitimacy they need to make it a success.

program elements Our program is made up of core face-to-face elements, grouped together in seven three-day blocks, and a range of ‘flexible’ elements, done when and where suits you and the others involved in the activity. See the schedule above for the block dates.

1. Action Learning Sets - Where insight leads to actionAction Learning Sets are a core part of SSE’s learning program. With a facilitator, students work in a small group throughout the year to find useful and impactful ways of overcoming stumbling blocks, dilemmas and issues. Students take turns in sharing a current challenge and are supported to reflect on the issue from different perspectives by peers posing questions in a non-judgemental atmosphere.

In this way the student becomes the expert of their own challenge and drives their own learning and insight. People can ask each other questions, but do not give advice. In this environment, students can be open and honest, acknowledge the issues that affect their project’s development, and learn from each others' experiences.

This program component develops students’ ability to reflect, ask effective questions and look at personal and project challenges from different perspectives.

Fellows of SSE oen continue to work in their Action Learning Sets long aer they complete the SSE program because they find the trust and wisdom that the Set builds to be of lasting value.

Core and face-to-face elements continued on the next page.

core & face-to-face elements

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2. Eyewitness - Real people telling real storiesThroughout the year, students have the opportunity to listen, learn, question and network with social entrepreneurs and seasoned

practitioners who come to SSE to share their experience and offer expertise and advice. We call these people

eyewitnesses because they give evidence for you to examine to find the meaning you need for your own venture.

They do not lecture, but discuss the secrets of their difficulties as well as their successes; engage in debate as well as answer your questions.

3. Expert Sessions – Accessing expertiseWhile we pride ourselves on offering a flexible program that responds to student needs, we do recognise that there are some areas of knowledge where students need definitive guidance. Through questioning, observing and listening to experts you will improve your abilities in such areas as legal structures, financial management, business planning, securing funding, marketing, partnering and other skills. The insights you gain will help you to develop solutions that will work for you. 

4. National Study Blocks - Strength in numbers Twice in the year we bring together participants in all our learning programs for a dedicated three-day learning experience combining project visits, expert eyewitness sessions, group learning, and time to network and socialise with students from

the different schools. These study blocks offer a unique opportunity to meet with other students from across the SSE network. They will be held in Sydney and in Melbourne.

1. Coaching - Support on callThroughout the program, you will receive one-on-one support from a member of SSE’s Support Team to work with you where you need it most. The coaching professionals engaged by SSE have the appropriate skills and experience to help you apply your learning and will support you to work through personal and project challenges as they arise.

2. Personal Learning Check-Ins Over the year you will meet with your Learning Manager to support you to reflect on your learning needs and direct your own learning. These meetings support students to understand and get the most out of the different program elements, the SSE network and the broader sector.

3. Connect With A Local Entrepreneur At the end of each block, students are tasked to find a local entrepreneur who is relevant to their field, project or business, arrange a meet-up and report their findings back to the group.

4. GAS Groups - Cooking with GAS! Goal Acceleration Session (GAS) Groups help students maintain momentum throughout the program and in-between the face-to-face blocks. A GAS Group is made up of three peers from the program. You are given guidance

on how to be effective in supporting and empowering each other in your meetings - on Skype or face-to-face, whatever suits the group.

flexible program elements & self directed learning                

Fellows NetworkSomething to look forward to

Students who complete the SSE program will gain lifelong membership to the SSE Fellows Network. The Network is your extended community, with members continuing to swap views and experiences , trade and collaborate.

Fellows are connected at special events throughout the year as well as through the SSE online community. Other benefits are being developed all the time as the network grows.

“SSE PROVIDED THE

STRUCTURE AND SUPPORT I NEEDED TO START UP GROUNDSWELL. STAYING CONNECTED TO FELLOWS AND STUDENTS AT SSE EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES HAS BEEN A REALLY GREAT WAY TO NETWORK AND AN IMPORTANT PART OF MY DEVELOPMENT. IT’S ALSO GREAT TO CATCH UP WITH PEOPLE WHO HAVE BEEN ON THE JOURNEY WITH YOU!”- KERRIE NOONAN, DIRECTOR OF GROUNDSWELL, 2010-11 SSE STUDENT

42011 students during a workshop where imagery was used to facilitate project planning.

what you bring What will be expected of me? You will need to be well organised. Outside of the face-to-face block program days, there is small group work and one-on-one meetings that require you to be accountable to yourself and others.

You will need to be ready to take action. In fact, most of our students are already working on their projects when they commence the program.

You will need a good level of personal resilience. Our experience has shown that our students put their passion and drive behind their ideas and they need to be able to work through the emotions that may emerge throughout the learning process. Students also need to be able to take on feedback from their peers within a small and large group setting.

What is expected of my project when I start the program? We expect your idea has had some level of testing in the relevant area. Have you researched what other kinds of ideas there are that address the issue? Have you spoken to relevant leaders or thought leaders within your area? We are not looking for the ‘right’ idea, nor do we expect that your idea has been scrutinised or intricately tested. What we do expect is that it is one that that has had some testing in your local community or community of interest, and that you are able to start progressing your project immediately.

How much time do I need to be ready to give to my project? You will need to be prepared to work on your project at least 2 – 3 days per week. If you are in paid employment and your project is related to your employment, you may count your working days towards this. Your attendance at the group block sessions is additional to this. What are the costs involved?The program will cost you $1,500 to participate. Scholarships are provided as required to fully or partially cover the remainder of the $24,000 program cost. You will be required to travel interstate to attend the two National Study Blocks - one in Sydney and one in Melbourne. You are responsible for covering the associated travel costs, which may include your accommodation. We will endeavour to support students with billet accommodation in both cities.SSE will work with every student to ensure cost does not present a barrier to participation.

Who is this program not so good for? The program is designed to be a robust and action-based learning journey. The program may not be for you if you:• want a theoretical understanding

of social entrepreneurship• require high levels of certainty

before getting in action• do not have strategies for financial

and emotional sustainability for the period of the program

next stepsRead Up. Having read this brochure, we suggest viewing some current SSE student profiles to get an idea of the diversity we look for and checking out the FAQ. If you have read our materials and are ready to apply, you can go straight ahead and fill out the application form accessible from the links below.

Meet Up. Check out our events page to see if there's an information session happening in a city near you. If not and you still have questions aer reading our materials, fill out the Expression of Interest form and a staff member will be in touch. 

Apply. When you're ready to apply, download the application form below and send it back to us before the close date. SSE Application Form (writable PDF) IMPORTANT: Save the PDF to your computer before filling out! Alternative SSE Application Form (Word document). Only use this version of the form if you are experiencing problems with the writable PDF.

APPLICATION TIMINGSFirst round applications close midnight 11th December 2011. Second chance applications close midnight 9th February 2012.

First round applicant interviews: 12th - 16th December 2011. Second chance applicant interviews: 13th - 17th February 2012.

In the interviews we will further explore your idea and readiness for the program. We prefer face-to-face interviews, however Skype interviews are possible.