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? The Institute for Youth Ministry is partnering with Ministry Incubators to offering a Hatch-a-thon in March.

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.

Application & Fees

Participation in the Hatch-a-thon is limited to 16 participants. Applications will be reviewed and accepted on a rolling basis, starting in the fall (2015) for the next event: March 2-4, 2016. The cost of the event (TBA) covers programming, two meals, and refreshments. Lodging is available in the seminary’s Erdman Center but the cost for lodging is separate. Please contact Princeton Theological Seminary’s Institute for Youth Ministry for more information.

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 (!).

Interested? Register today or Contact Us!