Initiative on Faith & Public Life 2021 Weekend Honors Program: Entrepreneurship & Human Flourishing

(formerly Values & Capitalism Weekend Honors–AEI)

October 29-31, 2021

The Weekend Honors Program on “Entrepreneurship & Human Flourishing” is hosted in a different city each fall semester. This year, the program will be hosted in Chicago, IL on October 29-31, 2021 in partnership with Wheaton College’s Center for Faith & Innovation. The program focuses on business and entrepreneurship and is kept intentionally small (only 25 students are chosen for each cohort) in order to foster authentic relationships amongst members of the group. Unlike a traditional academic seminar, the program consists primarily of hands-on exercises and activities that encourage entrepreneurial thinking. It also provides a unique chance for students to explore questions about personal vocation and calling, as well as the proper role of faith and ethics in business through discussions and high-level networking opportunities.

Past participants have said:

“It is a great chance to be around like-minded people who understand the impact of business in the Kingdom of God. You will come away from it either affirmed in what you hope to do or re-directed in a powerful way for what God is calling you to in the marketplace.”

“This weekend taught me so much about myself and what my calling could really look like in the future. It reframed my understanding of faith in business and encouraged me in ways that I never could have foreseen.”

Applications are now open and will be accepted until September 13th, 2021.  Learn more and apply here.

How does a weekend away with 24 of the brightest, most remarkable college students from around the country, incredible lecturers, and on-site insight into a growing business through the eyes of its CEO sound?

Many of the other students in attendance had travelled extensively and were even working on their own start-up ventures- neither if which I have done. I was intimidated to say the least. But over the course of the weekend we all got to know one another and bonded through the shared experiences of the lectures, workshops, and exploring the city. The people I met that weekend were extraordinary, and there was definitely some incredible networking going on!

By the time everything was over, I felt at home. I had learned so much, both about entrepreneurship for human flourishing (also known as redemptive entrepreneurship) and about myself. The program was absolutely fantastic, and I am so grateful that I was given the opportunity. I would absolutely recommend this to anyone who is interested in entrepreneurship and how it fits into God’s greater plan for humanity.

Rachel Smith '19

Entrepreneurship Major | Christian Ministries Minor