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About
Academic
Admissions
Student Affairs
Campus Life
About
Academic
Admissions
Student Affairs
Campus Life
About
Academic
Admissions
Student Affairs
Campus Life
About
Academic
Admissions
Student Affairs
Campus Life
Beyond Profit: Student entrepreneurship through non-profit organizations in Switzerland
Switzerland is a hub for non-profit organizations, with over 13,500 foundations and nearly 100,000 associations contributing to areas like education, healthcare, environmental protection, and social welfare. Contrary to common perceptions, “non-profit” does not imply a lack of financial structure—salaries, investments, and sustainable revenue streams are essential components that allow these organizations to remain impactful and financially stable. Swiss non-profits can attract significant local and international funding, supporting their mission while meeting Swiss requirements for public benefit and transparency.
Starting a non-profit organization as a student in Switzerland serves as a powerful platform to develop ethical and sustainable leadership skills. These qualities are increasingly valued by employers across industries who seek leaders that prioritize long-term, responsible impact over short-term gains. In the competitive global job market, students with hands-on experience in purpose-driven leadership stand out, demonstrating a commitment to integrity, social responsibility, and sustainability.
Starting a non-profit organization as a student in Switzerland serves as a powerful platform to develop ethical and sustainable leadership skills. These qualities are increasingly valued by employers across industries who seek leaders that prioritize long-term, responsible impact over short-term gains. In the competitive global job market, students with hands-on experience in purpose-driven leadership stand out, demonstrating a commitment to integrity, social responsibility, and sustainability.
- Leading with purpose and integrityNon-profit work requires a mission-centered approach where decisions are made based on social impact rather than profit alone. Students who start and lead these organizations learn to balance complex ethical considerations, understanding how to make choices that serve both the community and the environment. This experience builds a strong moral foundation, highly sought after in sectors where transparency and accountability are key.
- Building a sustainable modelIn a non-profit, sustainability isn’t just a buzzword; it’s essential for both survival and impact. Student leaders learn to create sustainable revenue models, manage resources efficiently, and plan for long-term results. These skills equip them with a strategic mindset focused on responsible growth and resource management—qualities that companies value as they increasingly seek to embed sustainability into their business models.
- Understanding stakeholder expectationsToday’s leaders are expected to address the needs and concerns of multiple stakeholders, from community members and clients to investors and regulators. Running a non-profit helps students develop an understanding of these expectations, teaching them how to build trust and foster partnerships. This experience in stakeholder engagement translates directly into the corporate world, where ethical business practices and transparent communication are vital for brand reputation and client loyalty.
- Contributing to a culture of social responsibilityCreating and managing a non-profit embeds a commitment to social responsibility in students—a trait that enhances any organization they join in the future. They become ambassadors of positive change, skilled at influencing others toward sustainable and ethical practices. This mindset helps shape them into leaders who inspire teams, foster inclusive work environments, and prioritize social impact in business decisions.
In line with these values, the American Institute of Applied Sciences in Switzerland (AUS) proudly supports the creation of student-led non-profit organizations. We encourage our students to put purpose at the core of their work and equip them with the tools to succeed sustainably. Leading a non-profit as a student in Switzerland provides invaluable experience in ethical decision-making, sustainable resource management, and stakeholder engagement. These competencies are highly valuable in today’s workforce, where companies seek leaders who embody values-driven leadership and are capable of making a meaningful impact.