How we work
At Access Ventures, we believe our impact will reach only as far as the stories we tell.
We view storytelling as a critical amplifier of our work and the work of our partners, without which we cannot realize our mission.
Explore some of these stories below, and let us know what you think.
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We view storytelling as a powerful way to spark change, exchange ideas, and build empathy. We are currently producing two podcasts that serve as a critical amplifier of our work and the work of our partners.
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We continually share learnings and best practices that advance our collective mission of human flourishing.
Announcing the Winners of the 2026 Reconstruct Challenge: Thriving Youth
Six organizations have been selected through the 2026 Reconstruct Thriving Youth Challenge, a 1 million dollar venture philanthropy initiative designed to strengthen systems for youth aging out of foster care in Tennessee.
The AV Fellowship Midpoint: Re-Anchoring Leadership for the Long Game
At the midpoint of the Access Ventures Fellowship, six Fellows gathered in Miami for a three day convening, designed to pause the pace of building and re-anchor the leaders doing it. The gathering marked a shift in the Fellowship’s rhythm from early formation and project framing, toward deeper clarity, resilience, and long term leadership orientation.
Introducing Our Inaugural Senior Fellows
At Access Ventures, we believe transformative change is always shaped by people, by their wisdom, their questions, and their willingness to steward influence for the common good.
Today, we’re honored to announce the launch of the Access Ventures Senior Fellows Program, a new invitation-only fellowship designed to engage distinguished leaders whose lives and work reflect deep alignment with our mission to cultivate human flourishing.
We Are Storied People: Why Storytelling Matters
From the earliest days of human community, identity has been shaped by story. Stories define who we are, where we come from, and what kind of future we believe is possible. They help communities make meaning together—and without them, we risk reducing people to statistics, transactions, or outputs.
Meet the 2025 Access Ventures Fellows
The Access Ventures Fellowship is much more than a leadership development program; it’s a springboard for young innovators ready to tackle some of the world’s most pressing challenges.
Announcing the Phase II Winners of the 2025 Reconstruct Challenge
We’re thrilled to announce the five Phase II winners of the 2025 Reconstruct Challenge, who are working to build solutions in Food Justice, Maternal and Child Health, and Healthcare Access.
What is Human Flourishing?
At Access Ventures, we believe that human flourishing is about living a life of purpose, dignity, and connection—a state where individuals and communities thrive together. This vision is deeply rooted in the insights of philosophers, thinkers, and change-makers throughout history.
Announcing the Access Ventures Fellows of 2024
The Access Ventures Fellowship is much more than a leadership development program; it’s a springboard for young innovators ready to tackle some of the world’s most pressing challenges.
A Little Help Goes A Long Way
Through the programs at VOA and the support of Samaritan users in his community, Trenton is able to connect to resources and training to help him explore his options and reach his career goals.
TikTok, Medical Debt, and The Power of Forgiveness
Dollar For is working to educate patients about the policies at non-profit hospitals and aid them through the process of applying for Charity Care.
Corporate Rest
Drawing from experiences in the military and manufacturing, AV founder Bryce Butler created a "corporate rest" policy, closing the office twice a year for complete disconnection, which has boosted team productivity and morale by allowing everyone to return to work refreshed and ready for new challenges.
Team Trips
Incorporating various types of team trips, including learning, team building, rest, and strategic planning, Access Ventures emphasizes the importance of shared experiences to strengthen team culture, foster unity, and boost overall productivity through well-planned and immersive activities.
Defining Your Values
This post outlines the process Access Ventures undertook to redefine their core values, emphasizing the importance of collaboratively assessing and refining these values to ensure they reflect the personal principles of the team members and guide the organization’s mission and vision effectively.
Know Homelessness
Homelessness is a complex, community-wide issue requiring both emergency services and preventive measures, and Access Ventures' Know Homelessness campaign aims to change public perception and increase empathy in Louisville and Southern Indiana by sharing real stories and encouraging community involvement to address housing insecurity.