Page 136 - Social Enterprise A New Business Paradigm for Thailand

4.2 Upstream Segment for Support Social Enterprises

4.2.1 International Funding Sources
A review of international literature reveals that social enterprises require funding sources and
forms of support that differ from those needed by conventional businesses. This is because they
must pursue dual objectives, not only generating profit but also addressing social problems. This
fundamental distinction explains why the social business ecosystem abroad includes additional
forms of support, particularly in terms of funding tailored to social enterprises.

These financial instruments may come from various types of funders in multiple forms, such as:

• Grants
• Equity investments
• Soft loans or low-interest financing
• Prize money or award-based capital
Figure 4.2 illustrates the range of international funding sources available to social enterprises.

Source: Compiled by the researcher.

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