GSIH is a seven-day residential program that provides fellows with the tools, community support, and training they need to advance their ventures. Workshops are customized to the needs of fellows and explore advanced concepts in business models, design thinking, and leadership. The program is also designed to help fellows build meaningful, global connections while living together in an inspirational host location.
The Center for Social Impact Strategy at the University of Pennsylvania will provide full program scholarships to every fellow, which includes accommodation and food. Fellows are responsible for covering travel and visa-related expenses to and from the location.
We welcome applicants with a compelling and tested concept for social impact. The only prerequisite for admission is completing CSIS’ free online course in social impact strategy or another of CSIS’s educational programs. Join a global community of purpose-driven leaders for a journey of connection, learning, and growth.
Our 2026 Global Social Impact House will occur September 12th – 18th, 2026. Applications are due March 25, 2026.
New Perspectives
Get daily feedback, advice and new ideas from other fellows and coaches to improve your venture.
Inspirational Location
Live at a rainforest retreat, relax in your cabana, and jump into the river for a swim. Unplug, unwind and recharge here.
Applicable Tools
Learn from experienced social impact experts and mentors who will lead workshops on human-centered design, business strategy, and leadership — tailored to meet your needs and desires.
Global Community
Develop meaningful, organic connections that last well beyond the seven days at the House.
Top Coaches
Our on-site coaches will help you design personal and professional roadmaps to chart the path for your success.
Digital Detox
Take time to intentionally disconnect with technology and reconnect with your personal purpose.
Location
Macaw Lodge is a forest eco-resort located in the San José Valley of Costa Rica, crafted from reclaimed or sustainably grown materials from their 264-acre oasis and surrounding community. The Lodge is completely off-the-grid, relying on solar power to generate electricity and heat water and was created as a model of sustainability where lovers of nature can experience both comfort and harmony with the environment. It affords amazing views of surrounding ponds, gardens, forests, and wildlife.
Additional activities available at the lodge include birding, swimming, chocolate tours, yoga, massage or simply relaxing in a hammock and enjoying nourishing farm-to-table foods in paradise.
Team
Peter Frumkin
Faculty Director
Montana Tamny
Program Manager
Ariel Schwartz
Managing Director
“GSIH gave me a huge confidence boost, and helped me acknowledge how far I’ve come. The community was second to none – the bond that was created in such a short space of time was incredible. I’m super excited for what comes next. I feel like the program gave me the opportunity to zoom out with a bunch of brilliant minds – and now I’ve got a much clearer and much more strategic path ahead.”
Linzi Hawkin
2017 Fellow, Founder—SUPKids
2017 Fellow, Founder—SUPKids
“GSIH was the highlight of my year. It was an incredible and indispensable opportunity to dissect our business model and discover how we can scale our impact. Above all, the community at GSIH is its biggest asset. Meeting and learning from so many brilliant folks in my cohort, some of whom I remain close friends with today, has been such a gift.”
Sara Berkai, 2025
Founder, Ambessa
Founder, Ambessa