Amid all the excitement at ImpactFest last week, we took aside some social entrepreneurs, impact investors and consultants to find out what they think is worth championing and what needs to be changed in the world of impact startups.
Social Business Coffee Breaks: Scotcash CEO Sharon Macpherson and Camilla Marcus-Dew, former head of sustainable growth at Clarity, share hard-learned lessons from having to watch their social enterprises come to an end.
The Mirova founder and “sustainable finance activist” interviews philosophers and writes novels alongside running a company. He tells us why it's all connected – and why “strange animals” like Mirova are still needed amid concerns for the future.
Traditional funding is often too restricted and can encourage dependence. Grants that focus on boosting traded income can help social enterprises to grow on their own terms and become more sustainable.
At The Gathering for Social Investment last week, we took aside a few of the UK’s social investment leaders to explore what they think are the best aspects – and the biggest challenges – about the movement today.
Blended finance is no magic wand – and there's little reason to use it in most of Asia, one expert says. Plus, more positive sentiments from speakers at this week's gathering in Spain – but a plea for “more African representation” next time.
