Founders pledge programs are platform 'businesses.' This thorough, accessible book illuminates many of the core principles that explain why and how founders pledge models work.

A rich body of academic literature is relevant to the emerging practice area of founders pledge philanthropy. Most university employees can access the journals and textbooks that publish the latest scholarship. This article by Professor Christopher Hayter at ASU, in the journal Small Business Economics, explores the role of connectors in the growth of new ventures. While not explicitly studied, Advancement professionals can act as 'knowledge intermediaries' similar to those noted in the paper.  

An essential resource. The Kauffman Foundation supports education and research in entrepreneurship, with a significant focus on higher education and ecosystem development. I had the opportunity to attend Kauffman's 2017 ESHIP Summit for ecosystem developers, and found it to be a valuable opportunity to learn and connect. 

Steve Blank is both a legendary serial entrepreneur and a widely respected teacher and student of entrepreneurship. His book, Four Steps to the Epiphany, inspired the lean startup movement, and his website is a trove of knowledge. 

Lisa Dietlin's study of philanthropy from entrepreneurs in various fields. Includes data, case studies, and advice. 

An introduction to the key concepts, terms, and mechanisms in startup finance. It will help you understand what your startup alums face, and how your connections could be helpful. Brad Feld is a prominent VC whose blog at feldthoughts.com is also a great resource. 

To achieve desired outcomes in philanthropy and innovation, universities must begin by engaging alumni entrepreneurs. These questions can help you open and strengthen relationships with your alumni entrepreneurs. View the infographic here; and the full article with 21 Next Level Questions to Build Relationships with Entrepreneurs here. 

Economist Zoltan Acs is an international leader in the study of entrepreneurship, and has spent more than 20 years examining how entrepreneurship and philanthropy intersect. This accessible book showcases his research findings, and is a must-read for anyone who wants to better understand the roots of this connection.

From Sean MacCready at The Philanthropy Podcast:

This week we’re joined by Dee Dee Mendoza to discuss entrepreneurs and philanthropy, especially “pre-exit” philanthropy. Engaging entrepreneurs in fundraising presents challenges not encountered in the typical donor engagement. Dee Dee Mendoza discusses how organizations have approached engaged entrepreneurs in their pre-exit philanthropy stage through the use of founders’ pledges, recognition society engagement, and providing value to entrepreneurs that is needed at each phase of their company’s lifecycle. All that and more inside…