‘Growth Hacking’ and Micro-Enterprises
Call me crazy, but I don’t like the phrase “hacking.” At best, I think of a less than sharp axe trying to cut a tree. At worst, numerous bloody screenshots … Continue reading
Non-uniform: Consumer Choices and the BOP
Despite similar low levels of income, low-income households have different product preferences and different shopping styles. Do development practitioners need a reminder of this? Different folks, different strokes While working … Continue reading
The “1099” / “Sharing” economy and Social Impact: When ‘good’ jobs go ‘bad’?
“For many people in emerging markets, a reliable job is the most effective means of escaping poverty. Steady jobs change lives” [EY Growth Services] Sharing is not always caring Deliveroo, … Continue reading
Dollar Shaving Club and Social Enterprises: Can one learn from the other?
A changing dynamic in Consumer-facing businesses has meaningful implications for Social Enterprises Changing times My earliest shaving experience was around the age of 13. After 10 minutes, reeling from … Continue reading
More than ‘Cool Runnings’: Social Enterprises in the Caribbean (and Africa)
To some, the Caribbean brings to mind beaches or even a movie of questionable appeal about an unexpected group of men in a bobsled. It may be less common, though, to … Continue reading
SMS, Sugar and Apps: Portents of Africa’s potential
‘Hopeless continent or Basket Case’ Only a bit more than a decade ago, it was quite common to find an unending and consistent view of Sub-Saharan Africa as a ‘hopeless … Continue reading
Lowered expectations
In the early-mid 2000’s, and with continued fervour since then, ‘Social Enterprise’ and ‘Social Impact’ have become increasingly prevalent terms. Among a growing class of freshly-minted graduates and young professionals, … Continue reading
The Wire: improving remittances to the developing world
From the parable of the Prodigal Son to songs in Reggae music, a common narrative exists about a youth, departing the childhood home and squandering precious funds abroad. However, outside … Continue reading
Let there be light: rural electrification in Asia and Africa
In some parts of the world, the sun is the most reliable source of light for many households. At night, entire families learn how to clean and eat with light … Continue reading
Yes, but can you do it again? Repeatability and social impact
Successful shots from the middle of the basketball court. Businesses that release the right product at the right time at the right price, with ensuing profits. Books that strike a … Continue reading
Shane Heywood 