There are many resources for budding social entrepreneurs on BYU's campus.

Students can get involved with a cause that interests them in a number of ways, said Todd Manwaring, director of the Center for Economic Self-Reliance.

Many departments on campus offer classes that address how skills in a specific discipline can be applied to tackle social problems.

"[These classes help students] learn how to serve in an innovative way that helps more people," Manwaring said.

In addition to classes, there are also a number of clubs that students can join. In these clubs, students can meet other people who are interested in the same goals they are.

A list of these clubs and classes can be found online at theworldisourcampus.org.

The Center for Economic Self-Reliance also hosts the yearly Social Venture Plan Competition. In this competition students prepare and present business plans that address social issues. The winning plan receives up to $50,000.

Information about the Social Venture Competition can be found online at socialventure.byu.edu.

Anyone who is interested in the study and practice of principles to eliminate poverty can visit the Center for Economic Self-Reliance in Room 360 of the Tanner Building. BYU's motto is "Enter to learn, go forth to serve." Manwaring said social entrepreneurs "enter to learn, go for to serve better."



Copyright Brigham Young University 12 Jun 2008