Are you nursing an entrepreneurial idea for ministry, but don’t know how to get it started (much less fund it)? Is your church ready to move a social enterprise idea down the field that funds other aspects of ministry? Could you use the wisdom of others to test-drive an idea for missional entrepreneurship–or are you just curious about what’s involved in starting a sustainable nonprofit or for-profit ministry?
What’s a “hatch-a-thon”?
A “hatch-a-thon” is a collaborative incubator experience, where creative people get coaching and colleagues around mission and social enterprise. We will run you through a 46-hour intensive “hatch” process designed to turn ideas that feel “wild ‘n’ woolly” into actionable, sustainable ministries.
In the world of computer programming, hackathons are marathon sessions where playful collaborators explore new programming ideas and work through an intensive process of concept development. (“Hack” in this case does not refer to a computer crime!) This process has been widely adapted for business and social entrepreneurs.
Ministry Incubators, Inc. has reimagined this process for early stage missional thinkers (youth ministers, ministry leaders, congregations, faith-based nonprofit leaders, etc.) who are still “hatching” ideas that blend mission and social enterprise. If that’s you, please join us.
What do you do at a hatch-a-thon?
We will immerse you in a collaborative process that helps you clarify your missional focus, ministry goals and activities, budget and financial model as you start translating your idea for ministry into action. You will also create an initial “pitch deck” to communicate your concept to stakeholders and funders.
Fees – $369
The cost of the event covers programming, copious refreshments, and meals (apart from one working dinner in Princeton at the place of your choosing). Lodging is available in the seminary’s Erdman Center but the cost for lodging is separate. Please contact the IYM for more information. Registration opens soon!
Bring your partner and we’ll make it worth your while! Though we require each participant to have a “phone friend” on speed dial during the event, people tell us they get the most out of hatchathons when they attend together with a partner. We define “partner” as someone who will share in developing the design and carrying the load of implementing your ministry enterprise. To make it worth your while, we’re offering a dramatically reduced registration fee of $169 for partners.
We’ve learned the hard way to say this: this is not the kind of event that will feel like a retreat, though we think you’ll have a blast. Expect long hours, high energy, crackling creativity, and a lot of coffee, laughter, and hope. But if you need a break (and who doesn’t?)…you might want to try the Bahamas (!).
