Its very interesting to follow different forms of organizations & enterprises. Broad classification remains - for Profit and Not for Profit, apart from Govt. But increasingly, looks like the significance of Social Enterprises is gaining the right momentum. Co-operatives of various kind are very common social enterprises in India - especially amongst the like minded class of people. Indian Govts have always supported the cause and being of such co-operatives and societies as they are mostly known in a big way. But one key missing element in some of these setups is the market savviness. I think there are some exceptions like Amul, Lijjat Papad and the likes who have really created and improving benchmarks of success of social enterprises. Market savviness brings the key aspect of sustainability which is missing in rest of the cooperative movements that have fallen off gaurd in several places.
I think the new era of real business minded or savvy drive brought in to get an idea realized in a social way is going to be more interesting than the traditional forms of cooperatives. This might be true for young minds wanting to do something different and meaningful for themselves and those around them. There is significant history of success and support available for such initiatives around the world. Exploring these and adopting a few will be of use to a few wanting minds. Let’s give a try.
