I've been thinking about this for the last few days, and I'd love your contributions to this thought experiment. It seems to me, I've only come across 3 types of business models for serving low-income/impoverished people.
Enterprises
The Wall Street Journal has reignited a debate about the value of corporate social responsibility (CSR). Does it add value to a business, or is it an unnecessary drain of resources away from shareholders?
Complicating the ability of co-ops to raise capital outside their membership is the fact that co-ops operate outside of the public stock market – in part based on the historical recognition of the primacy of members.
I had the opportunity to attend the Social Investment Organization Conference in June and a few things struck me about the traditional investment industry's potential relationship with co-operatives.
Community bonds, public lands, RRSP's, tax incentives and preferential mortgages - this is what will strengthen social enterprise in Ontario. CSI is looking for some quick and easy wins to move social enterprise forward. What do you think?
Jeff Mowatt on Three Business Models for the Bottom Billion
Sep 03, 2010