WHY AND HOW TO INVEST

UNDERSTAND THE CONTEXT OF SOCIAL ENTERPRISES

 

Social enterprises offer a more sustainable approach to social and environmental development than traditional charitable giving. Profits are used to provide for societal needs with the aim of building a self-perpetuating cycle of benefit that improves social circumstances. This in turn, grows the enterprise’s profit, which is then used for further reinvestment in social upliftment. Social enterprises can generate financial returns that are acceptable to financial markets, giving them access to funding sources beyond charitable giving and increasing their growth prospects.  

Limited research is available as to the number of social enterprises that exist in South Africa. However, conservative estimates based on available formal information suggest there are well over 140 000 in South Africa and more than two million across the continent 

These enterprises play an important role in filling the gaps left by ailing public sectors. Social enterprises create jobs, especially in underserved communities. They address environmental challenges, empower women, educate and upskill and help to digitise rural communities.

Potential models of intervention

Within social enterprises, revenue-generating activities coexist with non-profit activities that serve public interests. Companies investing in social enterprise development use different methods to support growing social enterprises, from start-up funding and development mentoring, to partnership, procurement and development finance support. This rapidly-evolving space offers a variety of innovative opportunities for intervention.  

Where to from here?
Read case studies and examples and explore research and insights

The social enterprises topic is led by:

barloworld logo

The 2023 Trialogue Business in Society Handbook is available.

KNOWLEDGE HUB PARTNERS

Supporting better business since 1999.

Copyright 2017 – 2023 Trialogue | All Rights Reserved

CONTACT US

CPT: +27 (0)21 671 1640
JHB: +27 (0)11 026 1308
info@trialogue.co.za
Connect with us on social media: