Bootstrapping a Social Business
On March 26, 2025, the Yunus Center AIT, in collaboration with the AIT Entrepreneurship Center, successfully hosted a thought-provoking session titled “Bootstrapping a Social Business.” Held at the vibrant Creator Space, the event drew 30 engaged participants including students, faculty, and young entrepreneurs.
This unique event was a part of the ongoing effort to foster a social business ecosystem by promoting creative problem-solving, innovation, and sustainability—especially in uncertain and resource-constrained environments.
Keynote Speakers
Mr. Hans Reitz
Co-founder, Grameen Creative Lab, Germany
A pioneering force in the global social business movement, Mr. Hans Reitz shared insights from his journey as the founder of the creative agency circ, and as the long-time creative advisor to Nobel Peace Laureate Professor Muhammad Yunus. Since co-founding the Grameen Creative Lab, Mr. Reitz has been instrumental in advancing the global vision of social business as a tool for systemic change.
Ms. Nais Graswald
Leadership Advisor | Communication Expert | Founder, Own Your Seat
With a strong background in political science and strategic communication, Ms. Nais Graswald brought a refreshing perspective on leadership, transformation, and communication. She shared practical tools for empowering individuals and organizations to lead with clarity and confidence, especially when navigating complexity and uncertainty.
Highlight:
Fireside Chat – Creating Opportunity from Challenges
The core of the event featured a Fireside Chat between Mr. Hans Reitz and Ms. Nais Graswald, moderated by Prof. Faiz H. Shah, Executive Director of the Yunus Center, AIT. The conversation, titled “Creating Opportunity from Challenges: Bootstrapping a Social Business,” explored how resource constraints can serve as a catalyst for creativity and innovation in building impactful ventures.
Key themes included:
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How to bootstrap a social business with limited resources
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The role of design thinking and creative leadership
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Strategies to nurture a culture of innovation
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Navigating ambiguity while staying aligned with SDG goals
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The importance of deep listening and authentic communication in social entrepreneurship
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Special Guest Appearance
The session was further enriched by the presence of Mr. Armin Keller, Co-Founder of Keller Y Farm, who shared insights on integrating sustainable agriculture into social business models. His reflections emphasized the intersection of climate action, community empowerment, and entrepreneurial resilience.
Moderation & Facilitation
Prof. Dieter Trau, Director of the Department of Industrial Systems Engineering and AIT Entrepreneurship Center, hosted the event with opening remarks that set the tone for an inspiring exchange.
The session was skillfully moderated by Prof. Faiz H. Shah, ensuring a dynamic and participatory experience.
Interactive Group Discussions: Social Business & SDGs
Following the fireside chat, participants engaged in interactive group discussions focused on aligning social business ideas with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). These breakout sessions fostered meaningful dialogue, peer learning, and the co-creation of ideas that have real-world potential for social and environmental impact.
The event served as a powerful reminder that creativity, collaboration, and commitment to social purpose are key to navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship in today’s world. With speakers who brought deep experience and bold vision, the session inspired participants to think differently and act with purpose.
As the social business movement continues to grow, events like these play a vital role in building a community of changemakers ready to tackle global problems with innovative, sustainable solutions.