This content has been archived. It may no longer be relevant
While buzzwords like “social entrepreneurship” and “globalization” have existed long before they became popular; it is the Internet that has given rise to them. And thankfully, it is the Internet that gives rise to social awareness so that more people can participate in such things, and make meaningful contributions to critical world issues.
What is a social entrepreneur?
Social entrepreneurs use business practices and innovations to find solutions for critical social issues such as poverty. Common fields that social entrepreneurs focus on are healthcare, education, environmental issues, and business development. Though completion of a social goal often requires the cooperation of many organizations, often differing in size, mission, and beliefs; all social entrepreneurs aim to build sustainable organizations that alleviate the original critical issue.
There are three different types of social entrepreneurship. The first type is the more traditional type most of us are familiar with; the Leveraged Non-Profit which is a business model that leverages resources and allocates them for social needs. The second type, the Hybrid Non-Profit takes on various organizational structures, but is unique due to its willingness to use profit to continue operations. Hybrids typically raise revenue to sustain the operation outside of traditional funding such as loans and grants. The Social Business Venture is a business model designed to create change through social channels. This business type is the result of a lack of funding.
How to become a social entrepreneur
The first step in becoming a social entrepreneur is to decide which critical social issue you want to tackle. For example, Tajikistan is Central Asia’s poorest state and is currently susceptible to both internal and external threats to its stability. Begin by reading everything possible with regards to Tajikistan and then set up Google Alerts with the keyword “Tajikistan” so that you’ll stay abreast of all issues pertaining to that nation.
The second step is to coordinate with other social entrepreneurs with similar goals. Find out what innovations they are using to create change in the area. Is there something you can do to help them? Unlike regular business ventures, social entrepreneurship is far more effective when those striving toward a mutual goal work together.
Spread the word and be a fundraiser
Now that you have a social goal, start educating your inner circle. The best and most sustainable way to raise funds is online. You are welcome to throw a themed, in-person party to raise funds, but this costs money and defeats the purpose in some senses. Also, most people are familiar and comfortable with crowdfunding, an online fundraising campaign.
To create an effective fundraising page, you will want to highlight the most critical issues or problems, and what solutions the funds will be dedicated to. Next, set reasonable financial goals and make sure your progress is highly visible. Also, be sure to thank supporters via email (you can set up auto-replies) whenever they donate. And while it may seem silly, using phrases such as “even a few pennies will help” has an obligatory psychological effect on a donors mind; usually causing them to be quite generous.
Once you have completed one successful fundraising campaign, set up recurring dates for future fundraisers. Keep your donators informed with current events via a regular newsletter or blog. Be transparent and show them how the funds are working.
Conclusion
Though social entrepreneurship is a little loosely defined, it is still very necessary. Without awareness of critical world issues, many will go unresolved. No matter the method you choose, being a part of positive change and empowering the oppressed is possibly one of the most important goals you will achieve in your lifetime.
Omega International provides educational training that will help launch small businesses throughout Central Asia including Tajikistan, Afghanistan and surrounding nations. Skilled training includes Conversational and Market Place Languages, Tourism and Hospitality Industry Skills, Sports Player, Coach and Support Staff Skills Entrepreneurial Skills, and Business Development.
Contact us today to learn more about how you can effect change in at-risk nations.
