Santa Clara University

GSBI™ Mentors

"Like so many things in life, what I learned from other mentors and our entrepreneurs far outweighs what I contributed.  It is really fantastic to see how integrated we are to others around the world.  Together, we are making something amazing happen for people everywhere." Paul L. Meissner - Mentor

Pairing social entrepreneurs with successful Silicon Valley executives is a key to the GSBI's™ success. With more than 20 successful executives including founders of NASDAQ companies and venture capitalists, GSBI™ mentors provide valuable insight into the development of innovative business models, market creation, and the unique entrepreneurial ethos for which the Silicon Valley is famous.

Mentors are a pivotal support to social entrepreneurs as they complete the program's required phase 1 online exercises. These exercises are designed to stimulate thinking about the importance of a compelling value proposition and understanding earned income revenue strategies. The 'virtual' relationships initiated during phase 1 pre-arrival work helps mentors develop trust and working relationships prior to the rigorous in-residence component. More importantly, phase 1 work helps social entrepreneurs bridge conceptual gaps - for example, moving from charity or welfare models to sustainability through earned revenue.

During the in-residence program, the mentors support social entrepreneurs answering questions, providing presentation coaching, and help in developing tactical plans. Mentoring relationships blend tacit knowledge with rigorous analytic support. The wisdom of mentors and passion of social entrepreneurs creates relationships which often lasts beyond the in-residence program.

Interview with 2008 Lead Mentors Brad and Vicky Mattson

The 2008 Mentors