Support a business that helps a wider community.
Do you know what Philippine social enterprises are?
A social enterprise is a business model. It relies on resources from the private or public sectors. Those resources are then used to achieve social objectives. Such objectives include reducing environmental degradation, inequality, and poverty.
Social enterprises are different from traditional businesses. The difference lies in their focus. The former focuses on solving social problems. The latter is more interested in maximizing profits. A social enterprise also benefits the business, the consumer, and society. These include contributing to the economy, creating jobs, and promoting social responsibility.
Social enterprises by the numbers
People are becoming more conscious about what they’re buying and who they’re buying from. Buy direct from farmers and artisans. Support local products. Shop for sustainable clothing.
More consumers are choosing to shop from brands with a positive social impact. And what were once niche businesses are now within reach.
Per the British Council, there may be as many as 164,473 social enterprises in the Philippines. That makes 17% of total registered businesses in the country. Of that percentage, 71% are micro, small, and medium-sized businesses. NGOs total 23% and 6% are coops.
Check these businesses out
These businesses aren’t new to the country. A lot of them have been around for decades and are already consumer staples.
Human Nature has been around since 2008. The company manufactures and sells affordable, eco-friendly, and ethically-made skincare and household products. They also provide jobs for residents from the Gawad Kalinga communities.
Edukasyon.ph is the Philippines’ largest online youth platform. It’s been catering to students and helping increase educational self-awareness since 2015. They do this through a website that offers online courses and scholarships. They help students take the right path based on their interests and skills.
Rural Rising was born during the pandemic. They help farmers from far-flung areas in Luzon get their produce to people in the metro. Their business model ensures food security by giving consumers access to organic produce. It also drives economic opportunity. Rural Rising helps farmers get fair prices for their produce. They don’t have to interact with middlemen who leave them with no profit.
The Kind Cookie offers palm-sized cookies and other baked goods. It also gives 20% of its monthly profits to charity. The Kind Cookie’s previous beneficiaries include Project Smile, Passion Project, and Initiative PH.
Support SMEs and social enterprises
Consumers need to make smarter decisions during this time of economic instability. These include supporting businesses that give back to help everyone survive and thrive.
Which Philippine social enterprises have your support?
Featured Image Daniella Sison
