Case Study
Cross Sector
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Livelihoods & Economic Inclusion
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A New Approach to Funding Social Enterprises

Antony Bugg-Levine, Bruce Kogut, Nalin Kulatilaka
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This article proposes using traditional capital structures—like bonds, loans, equity—for social enterprises by treating philanthropic capital as impact-seeking. It emphasizes transparent social outcome measurement and supportive policy frameworks so social enterprises can access mainstream investors. The authors argue these steps can significantly expand the scale and sustainability of impact-driven ventures by unbundling societal benefits and financial returns to attract diverse investment.