The Basic Social Entrepreneurship (BSE) Training successfully empowered community-led organizations with the knowledge and skills needed to establish sustainable social enterprises. This initiative was part of the Sustainability of HIV Services for Key Populations in Southeast Asia (SKPA-2) project under the Save the Children Bhutan Country Office. Funded by the Global Fund, with Health Equity Matters (HEM) as the principal recipient, the training aimed to enhance the financial resilience of community-led organizations, ensuring the sustainability of essential services for their communities.
The program was implemented through a collaborative effort among key partners. The Loden Foundation provided program management, technical support, and monitoring. Save the Children facilitated strategic collaboration, while Impact Hub Thimphu designed and conducted the training sessions.
Community-led organizations, including Pride Bhutan, Chithuen Phendhey Association (CPA), and Lhak-Sam, participated in the training, which was held in Paro from March 3 to 7, 2025. Participants engaged in in-depth sessions on social entrepreneurship, social impact, and the development of business proposals for financing opportunities.
The training emphasized the role of social enterprises in addressing social and environmental challenges while ensuring financial sustainability. Unlike traditional businesses focused solely on profit, social enterprises integrate revenue generation with a mission-driven approach to create lasting positive change. Participants explored sustainable business models, innovative problem-solving strategies, and scalability to expand their impact.
The program achieved significant outcomes. Over ten core members from community-led organizations received specialized training in social entrepreneurship. Additionally, three draft business proposals were developed, laying the groundwork for financially sustainable initiatives that will support critical community services. By equipping organizations with the necessary skills and resources, this initiative has strengthened their long-term resilience, enabling them to continue serving their communities effectively.
Written by Pema Dawa, Loden intern
Picture Courtesy: Impact Hub Thimphu
