Your community of impact—those directly affected by the problem you're tackling—is one of the most important groups you will need to engage with throughout the life of your venture. By prioritizing these voices from the outset, you can build a foundation of trust and support among community members. Their lived experiences and candid feedback will be invaluable in ensuring that your venture remains relevant and successful over the long run.f

Thoughtfully engage with those from your community of impact by participating in local events, attending conferences and workshops, and contributing to digital forums and discussions. Offer your time, expertise, and resources back to people in this audience.

• Use methods such as group workshops and ask-me-anything sessions to invite community members into learning about your innovation area. 
• Contribute to the community by hosting and sponsoring events, offering mentorship and office hours to aspiring founders, and bringing people together to collaborate on projects. 
• When organizing an event, enhance the experience by incorporating thoughtful hosting practices that foster a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere. Consider setting a clear agenda, providing refreshments, and being intentional about facilitating connections among attendees.
• When building new connections with your community of impact, go slow and lead with genuine interest, curiosity, and investment. 
• Document any learnings or observations you make about the community’s needs, behaviors, and preferences, and reflect on how your venture can better serve the community.