Sara M. Olsen is the founding partner of Social Venture Technology Group (SVT), the first firm to specialize in social and environmental returns analysis for private companies, and the related information systems. Sara is a pioneer in practical methods of non-financial valuation for private equity investors, portfolio companies, foundations and social enterprises.

SVT works in collaboration with entrepreneurs and other industry leaders to develop and disseminate approaches in a range of fields that include the clean technology, green building, community economic development, health, policy advocacy, human rights and the arts. Previously she helped found an arts-based community development venture for Shorebank Corporation.

Sara has written and lectured internationally on non-financial performance assessment and social return on investment ("SROI") analysis, including at the Schwab Entrepreneurs' Summit at the 2006 World Economic Forum. She has advised Calvert Foundation’s Social Enterprise Portfolio, Mobile Media, ImportantGifts.com and Fast Company's Social Capitalist Awards. Sara co-founded the Global Social Venture Competition in 1999. She holds an MBA from UC Berkeley, an MASW from the University of Chicago and a BA from Dartmouth College. She lives in San Francisco.

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