Cornell University has rich resources in impact investing, providing students with courses, competitions, funds and clubs to learn about and practice impact investing. With its Ivy League resources, Cornell enables students to understand various impact investing strategies and acquire practical experience. The core of Cornell’s impact investing lies in the immersive programs and competitions organized by different schools, through which students can apply classroom knowledge to address real-world problems and create positive impact.

Cornell’s courses equip students with impact investing knowledge
Cornell offers a variety of courses covering different aspects of impact investing, providing students with systematic knowledge frameworks. For example, the course Impact Investing informs students of major impact investing strategies, metrics and structural options. Guest speakers from leading impact investing funds share practical insights as well. Another course Renewable Project Finance focuses on renewable energy project financing skills. Students learn to conduct project economic analysis, assess project risks and structure financial plans.
Cornell’s immersive programs facilitate hands-on practice
Apart from courses, Cornell has immersive programs that allow students to put knowledge into practice. The MIINT Network holds an annual nationwide MBA impact investing competition, where student teams source deals, conduct due diligence and present investment recommendations to judge panels. Participants develop a comprehensive understanding of the impact investing process through real case studies. Some other programs like Investment Banking Immersion also provide impact investing internship opportunities, enabling students to work at top funds and gain first-hand experience.
Cornell’s student-run funds pave the way for future careers
There are a few student-run funds under Cornell that focus on impact investing, such as the NYU Impact Investment Fund. Students analyze companies and projects, structure investment plans, and manage assets in the funds. Such experience prepares students well for future impact investing jobs. Some students even start their own impact ventures after graduation, creating innovative impact investing models.
Cornell’s clubs connect students with industry professionals
Cornell has student clubs like the Social Business Club and Net Impact Club that organize impact investing events on a regular basis. Clubs invite leading investors and entrepreneurs to hold discussions and workshops, through which students exchange ideas with professionals in the field. The connections built at school facilitate students’ future career development in impact investing.
With comprehensive course offerings, immersive programs, student-run funds and professional clubs, Cornell provides students abundant resources to learn about and practice impact investing, paving the way for future careers in the field.