There are few forces as powerful as social entrepreneurs on a mission - They see a need and they don’t stop until it’s met.
Social entrepreneurship blends the scale, speed, and efficiency of the for-profit sector with the social and environmental purpose of the not-for-profit sector. Just like traditional businesses, social enterprises need financing to open, operate, and grow their ventures.
Social finance is a growing movement and marketplace looking to invest in ventures that will create positive impact in their communities and become financially sustainable businesses.
A non-profit has successfully delivered a government contract but is waiting for the final payment to be released. A community loan fund provides a bridge loan to cover its payroll until the government contract is paid out.
A housing corporation posts a community bond to raise investment for building affordable housing.
Four local community agencies purchase a new building. They receive a patient capital loan, allowing them to co-locate, and renovate a downtown building instead of renting – the mortgage payments cover an asset (the building) rather than an expense (rent).
From car-share programs, to the milk in your cereal, to clean-tech innovations, the stunning potential of social finance is already proving a powerful force.
With coordinated effort, increased investing and a supportive infrastructure, we can take this emerging sector to a fully formed marketplace that will deliver impact at the scale we all need.
THE WHAT, WHY, WHO, AND MOST IMPORTANTLY, THE HOW OF SOCIAL FINANCE IN CANADA.
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Please note:
The contents of Your Guide to Social Finance is general in nature, current only as of the date of publication and is provided for informational purposes only. It is not intended to provide professional investment or financing advice. Please consult a certified professional before making any decision regarding your investments and financing.
