Translation of innovation, particularly in the context of poor and vulnerable people, requires thoughtful consideration and the tolerance for early risk without the promise of financial reward. Because philanthropy can often “take the risks others cannot and will not”, The Rockefeller Foundation celebrates opportunities to translate proven innovations from one setting to address complex challenges in others.
Since the inception of the Foundation’s Impact Investing initiative in 2007, we’ve invested nearly $50 million to build the necessary architecture and infrastructure for the field. Much of our work actively engaged in sourcing new innovations that would apply financial tools and expertise to scale social impact in a much more sustainable way. Recently, we partnered with +SocialGood to surface new and exciting ideas in the translation of shared economy business models to new contexts.
Over the course of two Twitter Chats and a Google Hangout, we engaged with entrepreneurs, investors, technology developers, and active sharing economy contributors, consumers, and innovators to discuss their experiences and observations within this space. During our conversation, we honed in on how we can adapt common platforms in North America to developing economies—geographies where resources are constrained and private ownership of goods are more difficult. The opportunities for well-regulated and equitable sharing are exciting, especially if we can integrate lessons learned to-date.
Among the challenges and opportunities surfaced, here are some critical themes that emerged:
1. The sharing economy is not new
Collaborative models have existed for some time, and we can use those natural organizing experiences to shape new solutions.
A3: Water & energy systems have been part of the #sharingeconomy for years. Yet not always seen or treated as such. #RFSharingEconomy
— Shaina Dinsdale (@s_dinsdale) October 14, 2014
2. There is broad potential to apply these models to the base of the pyramid We have the ability to improve the lives of the poor and vulnerable, but have to think through the specific challenges faced by vulnerable communities.
The culture of a region and a people must deeply align with the values of this new economic model to sustain #RFSharingEconomy #SocialGood — Sartaj Anand (@sartajanand) October 14, 2014
3. Trust, sustainability, and thoughtful governance are keys to success
Without sustainability of the model, customer base, and clearly defined regulatory environments, platforms are susceptible to high amounts of risk.
A6: Appropriate regulations can enable #SharingEconomy and also help make it mainstream, safe, transparent, sustainable #RFSharingEconomy
— Kate Berrisford (@Kate_Berrisford) October 14, 2014
4. Be mindful of unintended consequences Some platforms are predisposed to certain side effects, whether that means circumventing formal selling marketplaces, eliminating certain classes from participating in systems due to constrained resources and opportunities, or restricting individual rights. New platforms will have to think critically about these risks and embed strong solutions into their design.
A5 There’s an understandable fear that this new economy will take away very well-earned worker rights. #RFSharingEconomy — Nikki Silvestri (@nikkicsilvestri) October 15, 2014
We’ve only scratched the surface on this topic, so please share any reactions, thoughts, or insights you might have in the comments below. Or see the full Storified conversation here.
How do we make the sharing economy work for the poor or vulnerable?
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