How Do Social Enterprises Access Funding? : RAPATAC In Gävle

Abstract: Title: How Do Social Enterprises Access Funding? RAPATAC In Gävle Level: Final assignment for Bachelor Degree in Business Administration Authors: Peiying Kuang and Zhonglv Song Supervisor: Dr. Maria Fregidou-Malama Examiner: Jonas Kågström  Date: 2013 May Aim: The purpose of this study is to investigate the factors that influence social enterprises to access funding. Method: This study has chosen a social enterprise as a single case study. We design the questions and collect the data based on five assessment factors from both the social enterprise and funders’ perspective. We use interview and questionnaires to investigate whether these five assessment factors influence funders’ decision.      Result and Conclusions: In our study, we found that five assessment factors could influence the funders’ decision. Social mission and the qualities of the leader are crucial factors influencing funding decisions. The performance of SE, financing sustainability and communication transparence influence social enterprise to maintain a long-term relationship with funders.  Suggestion for further studies: This investigation based on a single case study in Gavle, and we have collected data from a limited number of responders. Thus, we suggest using multiple case studies and collecting data from more responders. The further study should not be limited to one city. Contribution of the thesis: Our theoretical contribution is providing a model to complete theory. This model includes five factors which affecting funding of social enterprise. In managerial aspect, both current and potential social entrepreneurs can refer to these five assessment factors to improve their competence to attract funders. For the societal implication, this study shows the value and challenge of social enterprise to people and government, which enhance the public recognition of the social enterprise. Key words: Funders, social mission, qualities of leader, performance of SE, financing sustainability, communication transparence.