News on The Edge
Welcome to the Social Edge update!
“What is the role of private enterprise in delivering the goods and services to the poor? Should private companies serve the Bottom of the Pyramid, or is this responsibility better left to the public sector or NGOs?”
Mike Lee, this week’s host on Social Edge, asks many crucial questions in Sustainable Capitalism in Emerging Economies.
The private sector may have the capital and efficiency necessary to bring resources for development that extends beyond donor funding, but their quarterly financial goals may also be in conflict with longer-term development objectives. And there is a public perception that companies are robbing the poor if they make profit off of them.
What is the role of private enterprise in fighting poverty? Join Mike Lee in the conversation.
Then read Capital Ideas, our new blog hosted by Kylie Charlton and Eric Savage, founding members of Unitus Capital who between them have more than 30 years investment banking experience. Over the next six months, Capital Ideas will provide a “Finance 101 for Social Entrepreneurs” through a combined offering of basic finance knowledge, practical advice and case studies.
And don’t forget to follow Kjerstin Erickson’s blog, Forging Ahead. After making the decision to be transparent on Social Edge, she received very concrete help from Tactical Philanthropy’s Sean Stannard-Stockton: Pro bono access to a strategy consultant and a PR advisor. Find out if they can help FORGE survive.
And read about fellow blogger Sam Goldman’s good news: his social venture, d.light design, just raised US$6 million in venture funding in a round led by Nexus India Capital.
Join this Week’s Live Discussions
Sustainable Capitalism in Emerging Economies
Should private companies serve the BOP, or is this responsibility better left to the public sector or NGOs? Join Mike Lee in the conversation.
Taking Risks
Social entrepreneurs are inherently risk-takers. What risks have you taken to make the difference you want to make?
When to Quit
Charles ‘Hipbone” Cameron asks the most difficult question social entrepreneurs may face when circumstances (and funding) shift: “Is it time to quit?”
What to Do in Case of a Meltdown
What kinds of troubles are social entrepreneurs likely to face?
Watch the X-Interview
David Roll – Lex Mundi Pro Bono Foundation
David Roll manages a network of law firms offering pro bono legal services to social entrepreneurs all over the world. His advice: “Take risks! And don’t hesitate to ask your lawyers for strategic advice.”