In the business of service

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programme-related investment (PRI), which could help one get 10-year-long loans. “Considering PRIs as a good start, the last five to seven years have seen the new-generation philanthropists coming forward to help the young and make a difference to the society they are part of,” he says.

As experts advise, the choice here depends on the project one has in mind. If a social venture is not-for-profit, writing a grant proposal to generous trusts makes more sense. However, if the idea is to make profits, trying commercial lending, equity and venture fund are advised. “In the case of clean technologies, employment generation, etc one may reap benefits quickly. But in sectors like education and health, the results may take quite a while to show up. So going for loans that have high interest may not be a good idea,” says Mahajan.

Padmanabha Rao, founder, RIVER, Madanpalli, Andhra Pradesh, agrees. Through his multi-grade, multi-level methodology, his venture has been working with the government to provide quality education to children. “Unlike urban cities, the rural ventures don’t have much funds in the so-called opportune scenario. In our case, public-private partnerships have helped us improve standards. Education is still a virgin market to invest in,” he says.

Sohini Bhattacharya, director, South Asia Partnerships, Ashoka, advises entrepreneurs to hold on their goals. “Not profits, one must look at how a venture impacts society. Over the years, the ventures supported by us have made policy changes. That’s the way to go,” she says.