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2008 Net Impact North America Conference

The Sustainable Advantage: Creating Social and Environmental Value

November 13 - 15, 2008 : Philadelphia, PA

Overview

The Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania hosted the 2008 Net Impact North America Conference, “The Sustainable Advantage: Creating Social and Environmental Value." On November 13-15, 2008, more than 2,400 graduate students and professionals assembled in Philadelphia, PA to discuss how businesses and organizations can effectively address social and environmental challenges of the 21st century. The conference fostered enriching and inspirational discussion, presented opportunities for professional development and networking, and challenged conventional definitions of success in the business field.

Comprised of keynote speakers, panel discussions, networking opportunities, case competitions, debates, and much more, the 2008 curriculum featured cutting-edge business leaders from both the for-profit and nonprofit sectors on the following themes:

  • Corporate Social Responsibility
  • Energy and Environment
  • International Development
  • Social Impact Finance
  • Social Entrepreneurship

Attendees had the opportunity to pursue their career aspirations by networking with for and nonprofit companies at the 2008 Net Impact Career Expo.

Who Attends?

  • MBA students and graduate students in business-related fields
  • Professionals applying business skills to social and environmental issues in the private, public, and social sector
  • Recruiters and sponsors

"The Net Impact conference opened my eyes to the world of opportunities for business to lead the charge to insure that people, planet and profit can co-exist. We can change the world and our generation of leaders will do so." - 2007 Net Impact Conference Attendee

"Standard business practices incorporate far more than revenue goals.  Net Impact's annual conference is proof of the changing landscape and what it takes to be a leader in today's business world." - 2007 Net Impact Conference Attendee

"Attending the Net Impact conference truly changed the way I think about socially responsible businesses. I walked away from the conference realizing that I can use my talents and gifts to make a small personal "Net Impact" and make a contribution that will make a difference on the lives of others.” - 2006 Net Impact Conference Attendee