We at Beyond Profit believe in the power of entrepreneurship to drive development. But creating a new social business isn’t an easy task – it involves a huge risk (personal and financial), and a special mix of business know-how and savvy street smarts that aren’t easily taught in a classroom. How can we both inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs to take that risk, as well as equip them with the skills to be successful? This group of social enterprises is doing just that. This week, we bring you five organizations supporting the next group of changemakers.
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
Social Enterprise of the Day – Youth Social Enterprise Initiative
International; Non-Profit
The Youth Social Enterprise Initiative (YSEI) funds what most financiers would consider a risky investment – youth-led businesses in South and East Asia. But while others might think it’s unwise, YSEI knows it’s vital to driving sustainable change in developing countries. Their support goes beyond financial. Along with up to US$15,000 in seed funding, YSEI gives skills workshops and offers technical consulting. YSEI only funds ventures targeting poverty reduction, marginalized groups, environmental protection, gender equality and human rights. Once accepted as an YSEI fellow, young entrepreneurs have access to a wide network of potential mentors, advisors, investors and collaborators.
