Aaron Vidas Dishes on His Unique SVI Experience

Posted on October 7, 2013 by institute B

This year marked my third time attending the Social Venture Institute. It’s an annual gathering that I can only describe as Davos for social entrepreneurs in Western North America.

It’s held on beautiful Cortez Island at an incredible retreat called Hollyhock. Here you end up meeting everyone from financiers and ex-politicians to in the case of this year, renowned shoe designer John Fluevog.

SVI is centered on case studies where entrepreneurs present specific challenges and opportunities they are experiencing through their businesses. All SVI participants can ask clarifying questions and give feedback. It sounds like a recipe for disaster but it actually works really well. Mainly because it employs three values for all participants: honesty, confidentiality and brevity.

And that’s how I’m going to share my experiences at this year’s SVI.

Honesty

“Fire Yourself.” Those were the first words a case study judge uttered after an entrepreneur had bared the realities of their poorly performing business. The air was sucked out of the room. Then everyone realized the judge was right. The entrepreneur’s vision and goals were never going to be realized with their current business model. They needed to get out.

What I find most valuable about SVI is hearing how others are succeeding or failing in their business. I find myself saying “Oh, I do that.” You see things you do in your business every day, maybe not as acutely, that you can amplify for better results or get rid of because they’re hurting you.

It’s in these bits of honesty that I learn more about my self, my biases and how I can do better. And that’s the magic of this incredible place.

Confidentiality

All I can say is that I can categorically deny consuming any Lonetree Dry Ciders between the hours of 7am and 3pm. Not so much after that.

Another amazing aspect of SVI is that you get a bunch of leaders to open up, exchange ideas and let off some steam. Sure, you don’t sleep much, but you come home with a clear mind and a full heart.

Brevity

Do you want to change the world and grow a successful business? Get yourself to Cortes Island next September.

Written by:
Aaron Vidas
The Catalyst, institute B