How can social entrepreneurship ecosystems address transportation challenges?

1 What is a social entrepreneurship ecosystem?

A social entrepreneurship ecosystem is a network of actors and factors that support and enable the creation and growth of social enterprises. These actors and factors can include entrepreneurs, investors, mentors, customers, policymakers, researchers, media, and civil society. A healthy ecosystem provides social entrepreneurs with access to resources, knowledge, markets, and legitimacy.

2 Why is transportation a social issue?

Transportation affects many dimensions of human well-being, such as health, education, employment, safety, and inclusion. However, the current transportation system also generates negative externalities, such as pollution, congestion, accidents, inequality, and exclusion. For example, according to the World Health Organization, road traffic injuries are the leading cause of death for people aged 5-29 years, and air pollution from transport is responsible for an estimated 3.7 million premature deaths annually.

3 How can social entrepreneurs address transportation challenges?

Social entrepreneurs can address transportation challenges by developing innovative solutions that meet the needs and preferences of different segments of the population, especially the underserved and marginalized. These solutions vary from improving the efficiency and affordability of existing modes of transport, to introducing new modes of transport, to influencing the behavior and culture of transport users. For instance, Zipline utilizes drones to deliver medical supplies to remote areas in Africa, Via offers a shared ride-hailing service that reduces emissions and costs, Cycloville promotes cycling as a sustainable and healthy mode of transport in Kenya, and EMBARQ works with cities to improve public transport and urban mobility.

4 What are the benefits of a social entrepreneurship ecosystem for transportation?

A social entrepreneurship ecosystem can provide several benefits for social enterprises in the transportation sector, such as access to funding, talent, knowledge, markets, and legitimacy. A diverse and supportive ecosystem can offer different types of funding, including grants, loans, equity, and crowdfunding. It can also attract and retain talented and passionate people who share the vision and mission of social enterprises. Moreover, a rich and dynamic ecosystem can facilitate the exchange of information, skills, and best practices among social enterprises and other stakeholders. It can also help social enterprises reach and serve their target customers and create partnerships with other actors in the transportation sector. Finally, a visible and credible ecosystem can raise awareness of the value and impact of social enterprises, as well as influence the policies that affect the sector.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?