Social Business Model and Planning for Social Innovation

Copenhagen Business School via Coursera

Go to Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/social-business-model

Introduction

### Course Review: Social Business Model and Planning for Social Innovation on Coursera #### Overview In today’s world, social entrepreneurship is not just a trend; it’s a necessity. The "Social Business Model and Planning for Social Innovation" course offered on Coursera is an invaluable resource for aspiring social entrepreneurs who are eager to develop robust business models that tackle social issues while achieving sustainability. This course provides a comprehensive framework using the Business Model Canvas, setting the foundation for students to build actionable business plans aimed at creating social impact. #### Course Structure The course is organized into five distinct modules, each meticulously designed to guide participants through the intricate process of developing a social business. 1. **Introduction of the Business Model Canvas**: In the first module, learners are introduced to the Business Model Canvas, a strategic management tool that simplifies the business planning process. This foundational knowledge equips students with the necessary skills to categorize and visualize the components of a sustainable business model. 2. **Applying the Business Model Canvas**: Moving forward, this module delves deeper into practical application. Students will experiment with the Business Model Canvas, alongside the Social Business Model Canvas, learning how to integrate team collaboration into the business development process. This section also hints at the key elements of a business plan, preparing students for deeper exploration in subsequent modules. 3. **The Purpose of a Business Plan**: The third module encourages participants to analyze existing business plans of social enterprises. Through guest speakers' insights, students will gain a profound understanding of the essentials of crafting an effective business plan tailored for social enterprises. This module emphasizes critical thinking regarding organizational structures, enabling students to outline their business plans with clarity. 4. **Selecting an Organizational Form**: Module four introduces various organizational structures suited for social enterprises. It provides an overview of innovative organizational forms thriving in the US and UK while prompting learners to assess legal frameworks within their own countries. This knowledge is crucial in aligning the business model with the right legal form, facilitating accountability and funding opportunities. 5. **Attracting Startup Funding**: In the final module, learners explore diverse funding strategies for their ventures. This section highlights the financial necessities of social businesses and guides students in crafting compelling elevator pitches – an essential skill for engaging potential investors. Insights from a social impact investor and curated content from the Impact Investing World Forum serve to enrich the learning experience. #### Why You Should Take This Course This course is a must for anyone committed to making a positive change in their community through entrepreneurship. Here are a few reasons to recommend it: - **Structured Learning**: The modular approach allows for incremental learning, making complex concepts accessible and manageable. - **Practical Application**: Each module emphasizes real-world applications, including analysis of actual business plans and funding strategies. - **Expert Guidance**: Guest speakers and case studies provide valuable industry insights and practical advice, enhancing the overall learning experience. - **Community Learning**: Collaborative exercises help foster a sense of teamwork, essential for social enterprises that often rely on community engagement. #### Conclusion The "Social Business Model and Planning for Social Innovation" course on Coursera provides aspiring social entrepreneurs with the tools, knowledge, and skills necessary to develop effective business models. With its comprehensive approach, practical applications, and expert guidance, this course is highly recommended for anyone looking to turn their social business ideas into reality. If you are passionate about creating meaningful change through business, this course is the perfect stepping stone to realize your vision. Embrace the opportunity to transform your social ideas into actionable business plans today!

Syllabus

Introduction of the Business Model Canvas

Welcome to Course 2 of this Specialization! In this first Module we will introduce you to the Business Model Canvas - a useful tool that will guide you through the business plan process. You will be able to categorize the elements in the Canvas and start to use it in order to create your business model.

Applying the Business Model Canvas

In Module 2 you will gain more experience using the Business Model Canvas as a tool to conceptualize your business ideas and will be also introduced to the Social Business Model Canvas. Moreover you will receive advice about cooperating with your team members and coordinating in the iteration process. The Module will conclude with initial insight to writing a business plan - What are important elements of a business plan?

The Purpose of a Business Plan

Welcome to Module 3! At this point you will start to dive deeper into creating your business plan. After analyzing a real-world business plan of a social enterprise you will listen to guest speaker giving advice about important issues to consider when writing your business plan. You will be encouraged to think through different organizational forms a specific social enterprise may implement and start to outline your own business plan.

Selecting an Organizational Form

In Module 4 you will intensify your knowledge about various organizational forms. In particular new organizational forms, tailor-made for social enterprises, in the US and the UK will be presented and you will be encouraged to scan the legal framework in your own country. Once you have identified a form that matches your expectations you will continue your business plan process by starting to think about funding options in the next Module of this Course.

Attracting Startup Funding

Welcome to the final Module of Course 2. By concluding this Module your social venture will have reached an important milestone in the development process. This session will introduce you to the broad landscape of options you will face when designing the funding strategy for your social business. You will be encouraged to think about the financial needs of your venture and asked to create a plan of how to address those. Guided by insights from a social impact investor and researcher you will develop an elevator video pitch. This will be an important tool to attract startup funding. The final section of this module includes a special on the Impact Investing World Forum held in London in 2017, where Kai spoke to some practitioners who have some insights and good advice!