Chivas launches US$1m fund for ‘social entrepreneurs’

As part of its wider global initiative, “The Venture II” by Chivas Regal  is on the hunt for Hong Kong entrepreneurs seeking to “create positive social change.”

At this year’s launch event in Hong Kong on Tuesday, plans were outlined to find Hong Kong’s “most driven and inspiring change-maker” who will go on to represent Hong Kong’s in the Venture II finals next year.

The Venture II is an initiative with an international focus on providing aspiring social entrepreneurs with US$1 million of financial assistance, global exposure for their company or idea, and support from world-famous business mentors. Chivas Regal will provide mentorship and financial backing to those who aim to succeed in business whilst making a “positive impact on the lives of others.”

Up to 20 of the most promising social entrepreneurs from around the world will be invited to the “Accelerator Week” in Silicon Valley, California where they will meet with leading tech companies, receive mentorship from experts, and then pitch for a portion of the US$1 million in funding to create and advance their ideas.

On 20 October, Chivas Hong Kong will host a discussion by entrepreneur and philanthropist Yana Peel that will offer Hong Kong entrepreneurs the opportunity to gain specific advice from industry-leaders and meet like-minded peers and mentors. In January, five Hong Kong finalists will be invited to present their visions to a panel of judges, each of whom will evaluate the plan for its ability to create impactful social change through a financially viable business model that has the potential to be scaled-up.

Starting on April 2016, TheVenture.com will offer the public a chance to judge the finalists through voting and crowd-sourced funding.

Richard Black, global brand director of Chivas Regal, says: “Chivas Regal has continuously invested their profits into others like them; those who are committed to making a positive impact on society. The brand is not only committed to crafting their world-famous whisky, but also to inspiring profound and positive changes in global communities. Chivas Regal is dedicated to passing on their socially-responsible beliefs and values to the next generation, inspiring them, and educating them on the importance of pursuing business initiatives as a force for good.”

For more information on The Venture II, please visit its website.