Social entrepreneurs are deeply committed to supporting ethnic minorities and others facing inequality in opportunities. By working at a grassroots level, they aim to comprehend the cultural context of each country and community, using their ventures as catalysts to address challenges faced by vulnerable populations. They help local residents find employment and foster community development.

For instance, the Durian Foundation in Nigeria aids rural inhabitants by demonstrating how to utilize local resources and waste, like bamboo. These villagers learn to craft alternatives to plastic using it and produce biogas from waste as a sustainable substitute for fossil fuels.

“Preserving the identity and culture of local people is crucial,” observes Tony Joy, co-founder and executive director of the Durian Foundation.

“When you take pride in your roots and heritage, you’re more driven to make positive changes in your land, including conserving resources and protecting nature. I believe change starts locally and then expands globally. So, supporting and initiating change at the local level is essential.”

Social entrepreneurs also recognize that local community members best understand their context and challenges. Thus, initiatives in specific regions typically involve local partnerships, building an ecosystem that strengthens these communities. Local production is also environmentally beneficial as it conserves resources and reduces the need for transportation. An example is the 2050 Factory, addressing textile waste issues. It focuses on exclusively local production and plans to expand its network of factories across Europe.

Social entrepreneurs are driving the creation of a new economy. Some advocate for an ‘impact economy,’ a topic that sparked debates among forum speakers who explored the differences between these economic types and the roles social entrepreneurs play in each.

Katie Hill, a policy advisor for the European Union at B Lab, highlights the impact economy’s goal of involving businesses in addressing social and environmental issues. The focus shifts from GDP to the positive impact companies have on the world. Investors play a crucial role in this: if they, when investing, are interested in the company achieving social impact, they make sure the company actually does that.

“The impact economy can reduce hyperconsumption, encouraging people to mend an old jacket instead of buying a new one,” Hill explains. “If there are not too many people around desperate to sell you the new thing, and someone suggests repairing an old one, such situation will benefit everyone. But it’s not just investors who are vital; everyone’s participation counts. Social entrepreneurs, with their invaluable experience, should be exemplified.”

However, the impact economy does not necessitate a complete replacement of the existing financial model. According to Hill, significant systemic changes can distract from immediate, tangible improvements. The goal should be to refine the current system, Katie believes: “It’s about upgrading the train we’re on, not changing trains. The competitive economic system we have can continue, just in a more refined form.”