The Ariane de Rothschild Fellowship: an unprecedented concept
The Ariane de Rothschild Fellowship is based on academic learning and gaining the practical skills necessary for social entrepreneurship. The goal of this dual approach is to build a transatlantic, intercultural network of social entrepreneurs (www.adrfn.com) who are motivated to work together to develop professionalism and innovation that will make a difference.
Originally organized in partnership with the Columbia Business School in New York, in 2011 the program will be held at the University of Cambridge Judge Business School in the UK. The Fellowship, which brings together 30 entrepreneurs each year, provides intensive training in social entrepreneurship by addressing economic challenges, financial independence and social impact. Also included are classes in the social and political sciences, which encourage cross-cultural dialogue among students coming primarily from Jewish and Muslim communities.
A follow-up seminar is organized six months later at the ESSEC Business School in Paris. The level of excellence and scope of knowledge exemplified by these partner institutions help the Fellows build a solid network. They can help one another and overcome cultural and religious differences, increasing their chances of success in their various projects.