New $400,000 collaboration to offer experiential learning for students
SALT LAKE CITY – To expand opportunities for students looking for experience in venture capital, the Sorenson Impact Institute today announced a new partnership with World Education Services (WES). Through a grant from the WES Mariam Assefa Fund, the Institute will expand access to impact investing careers for historically underserved student populations. With a $400,000 commitment over two years, the partnership will support Sorenson’s Unlocking Impact Initiative—a hands-on, student-driven apprenticeship that trains emerging leaders in venture capital and impact investing.
Funding will support efforts to minimize barriers so students from any background can take advantage of the experience offered through the Institute’s apprenticeship. Funds will also go toward student compensation and broadening professional development opportunities for students from underrepresented backgrounds. Additionally, funds will facilitate learning experiences for students from partner schools, including Bowie State University and Miami Dade College.
“We believe changing who allocates capital is essential to changing where capital flows,” said Smit Naik, Senior Director of Impact Investing at Sorenson Impact Institute. “The partnership with WES not only strengthens our commitment to building a more representative investing ecosystem but also opens doors for brilliant future investors who would otherwise be excluded from this kind of opportunity.”
“WES is committed to advancing economic opportunity for all. We’re thrilled to partner with Sorenson to invest in emerging impact investing leaders by creating access to a program where they can build social capital and advance their skills,” said Nomzana Augustin, Associate Director of Partnerships and Strategic Initiatives at the WES Mariam Assefa Fund.
The Unlocking Impact Initiative builds on a foundational purpose of the Institute to provide students with venture capital experience. The apprenticeship has equipped more than 500 students, deploying more than $62 million in impact investments toward health equity, climate resilience, workforce development, and financial inclusion. Through the apprenticeship, students participate and lead across the full investment cycle— sourcing deals, conducting due diligence, and presenting to the investment committee—and come away with real-world, tested experience and guidance from investment professionals.
“This program is transformational for students. Not only because of the skills gained, but because of the confidence, networks, and vision they develop for their career potential, “ said Shannon Meyer, Operations & Student Engagement Associate at the Institute. “By creating these wider paths into impact investing, we’re creating a pipeline for future investment professionals that better reflects the talent that exists.”
About Sorenson Impact Institute
At the Sorenson Impact Institute, we know capital can be a force for good. Proudly housed at the University of Utah’s David Eccles School of Business, we are a team of expert practitioners with a mission to expand the market for impact investing. We connect capital to positive social and environmental outcomes, conduct applied research, drive innovations in impact, and equip future leaders. Our headquarters, the Impact & Prosperity Epicenter, is a pioneering live/work ecosystem that fosters a shared vision for the betterment of people and the planet. Learn more at sorensonimpactinstitute.com.
About WES
Founded in 1974, WES is a non-profit social enterprise that supports the educational, economic, and social inclusion of immigrants, refugees, and international students. From evaluating academic credentials to shaping policy, designing programs, and providing philanthropic funding, we partner with a diverse set of organizations, leaders, and networks to uplift individuals and drive systems change. Learn more at wes.org.
