About BHSI

About BHSI

The Bluhm/Helfand Social Innovation (BHSI) Fellowship at Chicago Ideas Week recognizes social entrepreneurs, 35 years or younger, whose nonprofit and for-profit ventures tackle significant social challenges through innovative business models. Now in its eighth year, the BHSI Fellowship is committed to empowering entrepreneurs from diverse backgrounds by providing them with a platform for growth.

Each year, the outstanding entrepreneurs chosen as Fellows earn a spot on the Chicago Ideas Week stage, and - during the weeklong ideas festival - meet with a slate of nationally-recognized business and civic leaders, as well as fellow speakers, on a schedule tailored to their unique needs. In addition, Fellows are awarded $10,000 in non-discretionary financial support toward their work. They join a close-knit community of past Fellows who enjoy ongoing support and mentorship from the greater BHSI and Chicago Ideas communities. 

Since its inception in 2011, the BHSI Fellowship – created by philanthropists and entrepreneurs Leslie Bluhm and David Helfand – has awarded more than $700,000 to the Fellows through contributions and in-kind services.

Chicago Ideas Week will be held October 15-21, 2018. For more information, contact Julia Dilday at julia (at) chicagoideas.com