University of Minnesota
University of Minnesota
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Acara
  • Introduction to Social Entrepreneurship at Makerere University
    Introduction to Social Entrepreneurship at Makerere University
  • Acara Challenge February 2013
    Acara Challenge February 2013
  • J term (CE 5572) course
    J term (CE 5572) course
  • January course in New Delhi
    January course in New Delhi
  • Acara Course Introduction for 2012-13 School Year
    Acara Course Introduction for 2012-13 School Year

    At Acara, we work with emerging student entrepreneurs to envision and launch social and environmental ventures by teaching courses, mentoring teams and providing ongoing incubation. A joint program of the Institute on the Environment, College of Science and Engineering and Carlson School of Management, at the University of Minnesota, Acara gives emerging entrepreneurs resources to change the world. Since 2009, more than 300 students from 20 universities have participated in Acara’s programs, guided by mentors in academia and industry to collaboratively develop leadership skills, explore business concepts and implement financially viable solutions.

    Announcements

    Apply for Fall 2013 Acara Challenge course now! Learn more about the course here.

    To apply for the Acara Challenge course (CE 5571, PA 5290, ARCH 5550), email Fred Rose at rosex122@umn.edu with: (1) Resume (1-page PDF) (2) Short essay (2-page PDF) responding to three questions: Why you wish to take the class? What is your relevant background experience? What will you contribute to an interdisciplinary team? Application is now open. Space is limited to 20. Apply soon while space remains!

    The 2013 Acara Challenge Finals was a great success! We are proud of our hardworking students. Learn more about their projects here.

    We recently offered a new series of short evening courses. Check them out here.

    The Dropbox for the Makerere Course is here.

    Acara 2012/3 Courses and Challenge

    The Acara sequence of courses, and subsequent Challenge, is a unique way to get involved creating sustainable solutions for social and environmental change. Find out about the courses, and the Challenge.  Learn more

    Sustainability Innovation Student Challenge Award (SISCA)

    SISCA, a program of IonE and the Dow Chemical Company, recognizes and rewards students and universities for innovation and research that encourages and promotes sustainable solutions to the world’s most pressing social, economic and environmental problems. The Finals were Nov. 29, 2012, the next one is in Nov. 2013. Learn more

    Design for Sustainable Development: Discovery—Delhi, India

    2013 Acra workshop day1 21

    In January 2013, we spent 3 weeks learning about engineering and design aspects of sustainable development in Delhi, India. Through field trips, discussions and lectures, we learned about development and infrastructure issues with water, energy, waste, and more. It was a great class! See the class blog here and course syllabus here.

    PARENT INSTITUTE
    The Acara program is administered by the University of Minnesota's Institute on the Environment.

    UPCOMING EVENTS

    Feb 14, Acara Social Venture Workshops
    Learn more.

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