Together with representatives of social enterprise groups, Premier Mao Chi-kuo today announced the opening of the nation's first social enterprise hub, which will provide one-stop startup services.
Taking up social enterprise signifies doing what one enjoys while making money in the process, and it is encouraging to see a number of young people involved in this field, the premier said at the opening ceremony and reception. He hopes the promotion of social enterprises will help participants learn from each other, share, brainstorm and grow, and that in time social enterprise will become yet another special characteristic of Taiwan.
The hub is located at the former premier's residence on Jinhua Street. The Executive Yuan has transformed the facility to provide a venue for those interested in social enterprise to learn and for old hands to share their experiences with novices. Moreover, experts in various fields can brainstorm at the site while developing their social networks, Mao noted. Consequently, the venue serves numerous functions and may be regarded as a "dream house" because everyone can realize his or her dream there.
Taiwan's social enterprises have a developmental edge because many young graduates engage in developing social enterprises after leaving school, Mao pointed out. This indicates a new direction for youths to get employed or start up a business.
Social enterprises are applicable to first-, second-, and third-tier industries alike, the premier reiterated. He hopes Taiwan's social enterprises will develop and link up with these three levels of industries so as to produce a multiplier effect.
Meanwhile, social enterprises should incorporate the concepts of living, production and ecology into their businesses, Mao added. He also noted they have great potential to contribute to administrative objectives such as creating careers for young people, instituting security for the elderly, generating opportunities for enterprises and providing a dignified living environment to the disadvantaged.
Social enterprises are very important, Premier Mao reiterated. A public revolving fund would help them to acquire funding in their gestation stage, and the premier hopes such a fund can be quickly established during the summer vacation season.