Social Enterprise
A social enterprise is a cause-driven business improving social objectives and serving the common good. Social enterprises have business, environmental and social goals. They seek financial benefits while maximising benefits to society and the environment, instilled in the principles of fair share and fair price.
Planet-centric approach involved and importance
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Creating dignified livelihood opportunities for the local communities.
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Judicial and mindful usage of resources available.
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Sustaining and promoting traditional wisdom, culture and creating livelihoods through it.
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Providing an alternative to capitalist business models.
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Working on social equity, environmental sustainability and economic empowerment.
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Focusing on localisation.
Knowledge, Skillset, and Mindset to be developed to become a practitioner
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Basic understanding of different departments like statistics, accounting, designing, logistics, marketing and relationships.
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Understanding of artistic, traditional craft history and a will to promote it for artisan based social enterprises.
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Ability to design a space and an economically sustainable model to undertake social action.
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Creating a space of dialogue with the community.
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Focus on localisation.
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Respect and appreciation for the community and their culture.
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Research on community’s aspirations and methods to incorporate it in the enterprise model.
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Having a long term dedication to the community and work.
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Ability to overcome fear and reflect on oneself.
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Believing in the process of starting small.
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Willingness to step out of comfort-zone, handle challenging situations.
Opportunities in such a pathway
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Establish a model of entrepreneurship which is based on gender justice, fair trade and promotion of traditional knowledge.
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Work towards a self-reliant and dignified community.
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High potential for cultural and economic development of the community.
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Sustenance and revival of traditional crafts.
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Potential to create alternative markets.
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Address various socio-political issues through economic activity.
Learning resources
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Readings
Organisations