From easing refugee crises and setting up 911 systems in developing countries, to neonatal monitors and cause-based tourism, Columbia social entrepreneurs from across campus are taking what they learn in the classroom and going out to make the world a better place.
Here’s a look at five startups to have come out of Columbia’s School of Public and International Affairs (SIPA), a school whose dedication to innovation and real-world impact make it a magnet for students looking to solve problems around the globe. Click through to read about their journeys.
Eat Offbeat – NYC
Eat Offbeat delivers authentic and home-style ethnic meals that are conceived, prepared and delivered by refugees resettled in NYC.
Mobis – Brazil
Mobis is a nonprofit social venture devoted to spread of democratic civic education to Brazilian high schools.
Five One Labs – Iraq
Five One Labs is a start-up incubator that helps refugees and conflict-affected entrepreneurs launch and grow their businesses in the Middle East.
Agratam India – India
Agratam India, founded by Akshay Verma ’13SIPA, is a social venture committed to promoting equitable development and providing viable income generating opportunities in rural economies.
Visit.org – Global
Visit.org is the world’s leading platform for social impact travel experiences: you can book immersive experiences and know that revenue will be invested back in the local community through the host do-good organization.