In a recent article I read, the author, Yotam Ariel, tries to offer a social entrepreneur working in solar lamp distribution an opportunity to cut his costs by half by arranging for bulk-buying with other solar entrepreneurs to reduce the unit cost for each manufacturer. The entrepreneur refuses, citing that he would rather not help his competitors to “free-ride” off of his (bigger) purchasing power.
Hence, the author wonders why it is that people with similar social missions are still hesitating or outright refusing to share resources. What fears or concerns motivates them to do so? What speaks in favor or against collaborating with other social entrepreneurs? How much competition do we need among social businesses?
Good questions in my book! I wonder what you think after indulging my thoughts for a moment…
