ASUC Social Impact Incubator

Mission

Through the ASUC Social Impact Incubator, we provide financial support to initiatives that address important issues in and around UC Berkeley, fostering lasting, positive change. Participants can receive up to $10,000 in funding and mentorship through a professional development series with Haas professors and experts across various fields. Whether you have a brand new idea or an established nonprofit/startup, we accommodate all levels and tailor our curriculum to meet your specific needs.

What we look for in applicants

• Impact: What issue is your project addressing, and what positive change will it bring to campus?
• Change: Has this issue been addressed already on campus? Are you bringing new ideas or looking to strengthen an existing program?
• Feasibility: Does your initiative seem practical given the resources you have and we can provide?
• Determination: Can we see passion about the subject matter, openness to learning, and willingness to see the project through?

Program Guidelines

• The project must be intended to drive positive social impact at UC Berkeley.
• Your idea does not need to generate profit but should have a clear quantitative or qualitative indicator of success.
• Equal access—if applicable, your project should be available to all multicultural communities and socioeconomic groups.
• Access to your initiative must be free to UC Berkeley students during its time in the incubator.
• Attend the mandatory professional development series the week of February 3rd-7th.
• The incubator period is until the end of Spring 2025, after which you will have full autonomy to continue your project and take it beyond the Berkeley campus.
• Create a demo day presentation by the end of the school year, during which you will have the opportunity to present your idea to the other groups.

Application Timeline

• October 16: Application release
• October 23 (5-7pm): Info session in B North 82d
• November 11: Application deadline

Program Timeline

• December TBD: Projects selected
• End of first semester: Introduction meeting
• Week of February 3rd: Professional development series
• Throughout semester: Monthly meetings
• End of semester: Exhibition/demo day

If you have any questions, don't hesitate to reach out!

• Email us at socialimpact@asuc.org
• Follow our instagram here
• Link to schedule a coffee chat with us - we would love to talk to you about your project and answer any questions during the application process!