Designing Startups for Good

Catalog description

This course examines the limitations of traditional corporate structures -- particularly the mandate for shareholder profit maximization -- which often lead to unsustainable growth and the externalization of social and environmental costs. Students will investigate alternative legal and financial models that support sustainability, such as Public Benefit Corporations, blended finance approaches, and governance tools that prioritize mission in addition to profit. The course emphasizes the need for legal frameworks, funding pathways, and compensation structures that allow companies to define their stakeholders and pursue positive impact on their behalf. Class meetings will consist of lectures, guest speakers, and discussion around project-relevant aspects of the startup ecosystem. Deliverables will consist of project-focused exercises, written reflections, and a final presentation.The course is by consent and is open to law students and to graduate students in the fields of environmental science and sustainability, public policy, and business. Previous exposure to startups, corporate law, and venture investment is preferred but not required. Elements used in grading: Attendance, class participation, written assignments. CONSENT APPLICATION: To apply for this course, students must complete a Consent Application Form available at SLS Registrar https://registrar.law.stanford.edu/.