Tearfund’s forTomorrow Enterprise Program works with local Christian partners who are exploring innovative market based approaches to address social and/or environmental challenges. We do this by discussing ideas, facilitating training, and offering seed grants to start piloting and testing enterprise models. Our longer term aim is to assist these partners progress to achieve their goal of establishing commercially viable enterprises.

We discuss strategy, the pitfalls, value propositions, business models, and financial modelling. We support the development of operational policies and assist with strengthening governance models, building a strong foundation for early stage social enterprises.

Catalytic seed and growth grants are available for social enterprises that meet the required criteria. The enterprises are also encouraged to seek support from different local sources and to learn from other local entrepreneurs who have more experience. In certain cases, an enterprise grant may be awarded to capitalise a loan to a social enterprise. Importantly, in all cases, we assist with how to measure and track social and environmental impact.

The forTomorrow Enterprise Program builds relationships with partners, responding to their requests as they progress to commercial viability.The Grants awarded are designed to strengthen capability, explore feasibility and promote sustainable business growth. Together with partners, we monitor the impact of the grants.

The forTomorrow Enterprise Program has made two impact investments into established social enterprises operating in the Philippines and Nepal. Each of these enterprises are employing over 200 people, the majority of which are women who have faced trafficking and abusive life situations. Through the two social enterprises, the women now have dignified employment in a safe and respectful environment. We continue to meet regularly with senior leadership in these enterprises, monitoring the 5 year concessional loan repayments, business operations and impact reporting.