Here's how you can overcome challenges in social impact industries as an entrepreneur.

Deep understanding comes from proximity - so get close to the problem to identify tangible and viable solutions. Ultimately you should be able to deepen, or even broaden, from there.

Start with asking people and communities if they really have been impacted. The question shoes how removed we are by calling what we do as an industry!

Perhaps someone experiencing the problem can actually offer solutions that a realistic, practical and even inspirational! Sometimes when we feel it close we can imagine a different outcome or solution. It is those powerful questions that can help!

One trap I've noticed some charities fall into is conflating their Impact Measurement with their Advocacy/Comms. It's important to galvanise your donours with great success stories and stats, but it's even more critical that leadership also have a separate, independent, honest and realistic view of the real impact that the charity is having. You'll never change the world if you let yourself believe that you've already achieved that. And you'll never find your impact blind spots if you let your latest newsletter success stories go to your head.

When the most challenging moments arise, I reconnect to my greater purpose driving the work, as well as mentors and colleagues I most admire whose insights energize and provide inspiration for new ways of approaching those challenges.

Networking is a cornerstone of business success, particularly in sectors aimed at social impact. A proactive approach characterized by a giver's mentality not only enriches our networks but also fosters a supportive community. It’s essential to enter these relationships with clarity about what we can contribute and a commitment to collective growth. By sharing ideas and resources, we create a symbiotic environment where everyone benefits. I encourage all to broaden their outlook, connect the dots, and actively engage in helping peers succeed. This approach not only amplifies our individual capacities but also propels the entire community towards sustainable growth. Let’s continue to build these networks with intention and generosity.

El impacto social se logra a través del trabajo colectivo. Reconocer el alcance de nuestro trabajo y en dónde podemos necesitar ayuda es importante para identificar alianzas y relaciones que nos permitan cumplir nuestros objetivos.

En países como México, el financiamiento de las empresas socioambientales implica un reto doble. Es prioritario generar un modelo de negocios sostenible y rentable y aprovechar el impacto socioambiental como un valor agregado de nuestra propuesta de valor para lograr un mayor posicionamiento dentro de la industria en donde nos desempe?emos.

?? Embrace Change: Tradition & Innovation ?? In an era where we've shifted from library visits to information at our fingertips, balancing timeless wisdom with modern innovation is key. How do we harness the best of both worlds? Let's integrate foundational principles from past generations with the fresh ideas of today to drive impactful change. ?? Finding the Sweet Spot: The art of impactful innovation lies in balancing these two worlds. It’s about integrating the robust, time-tested knowledge of the past with the agile, revolutionary ideas of the present. This synergy enables us not only to adapt but also to thrive amidst the waves of change.

In the journey of social entrepreneurship, resilience is the silent engine that drives progress. It's the unwavering spirit that turns obstacles into stepping stones and transforms challenges into opportunities for growth. As you forge ahead, remember that every setback is a setup for a comeback. Your steadfastness not only shapes your venture's path but also lights the way for others to follow. Let your resilience be the hallmark of your legacy, as you create impactful waves in the tide of social change.

El emprendimiento socioambiental es un trabajo de valientes. Tener claros los objetivos y los "por qués" profundos nos ayudará a mantener la resiliencia y constancia en nuestras organizaciones.

?? Finding Balance in Social Impact ?? Navigating social impact without clear financial metrics is challenging. Yet, not everything impactful can be measured in dollars. I believe in striking a balance. By maintaining a solid plan, regularly engaging with our community, and collaborating with supportive peers, we can navigate the complex landscape. Setting realistic goals and valuing small victories also lead us a long way. A simple act like conducting thoughtful interviews can create meaningful connections. For instance, a proper interview process not only won me a valuable friend but also a collaborator in the Singapore SME scene.

Social impact is multifaceted. My path involved aiding SMEs in Singapore, overlooked by major banks but crucial to our economy. Despite not attending a local university, I leveraged my start at PwC and Temasek Polytechnic to support sectors where I could make a real difference. Investing time in SMEs, I help uncover hidden gems that, with the right support, contribute significantly to society. I believe in giving back to the community that gave me opportunities, enhancing our collective future. Giving back to the future generation is crucial. It’s been a pleasure to see many interns grow under my guidance, moving to great positions, hopefully due to the professional growth and matured thought processes they developed with us.

Solve a real problem. That is so so key in driving impact forward. Make sure you understand the root cause of your problem and are not trying to create a band aid solution for a symptom. Social enterprise and impact startups that drive towards solving a root cause issue tend to be more effective in their ability at actually solving it because they are dissecting that core part of the problem, its many facets, and the way that problem presents itself.