Criterion Convergence VII: 
Systems of Change

March 1-3, 2009

The Desmond Tutu Center
180 10th Ave., NY, NY 10011

Criterion Ventures gathered leaders in social change March 1-3, 2009 at the Desmond Tutu Center in New York City.  At Convergence, Criterion creates an environment where new connections, both social and intellectual, can be forged. The dynamic people within our network - catalytic changemakers - come together to meet each other, to bridge interest areas, and script growth and change.   Among the group were foundation and non-profit leaders, social entrepreneurs and investors, political activists, and design specialists. 

Before the gathering, Criterion listens to the participants and designs conversations and questions that reflect the passions and commitments of the participants. Each participant receives a personalized schedule which allows them to explore their interests and advance their agendas. The schedule allows for both structured conversation and informal exchanges over drinks or during a walk.  Convergence is not your average conference. It is a series of intentional conversations designed around participants' interests.

Examples of conversations from Convergence VII include:

• Arc of Innovation to the Next Idea
• Tracking Trends in Social Change
• The Age of Civic Discourse
• Collectiveness to Scaled Impact
• Recalibrating our Country's Values
• Reimagining Capitalism
• The Cash Market in Health Care
• Design for Social Change

Criterion's core business is to launch social ventures that create a better world. Convergence reflects our belief that when passionate, interesting and committed people come together innovative solutions arise.  Our conversations lead to actions, opportunities explored and vetted, and connections ready to inspire something new.

"Convergence is a mysterious conference - a conference about conversations. I'm an explorer, so I thought I would try it.  Well, my ending point of view is that most conferences should be structured like Convergence. Why do you attend conferences - to gain new insights, to meet people to collaborate with, find people who share your interests, learn best practices. I did all that at Convergence and more. I recommend it to anyone - what a great experience!"

 - Linda Jenkinson, WOW Foundation and Investments

A conversation, among talented peers, that builds in intensity, relevance, specificity and meaningfulness over the course of 2 days.

- Cynthia Osborne, Lutheran Services in America