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SOCIAL BUSINESS WEEK
BAHRAIN 2012
FOLLOW UP REPORT
This report will provide a summary of this inspiring
week. We will share with you the great social
business ideas, which have been developed during
the workshops and will give more impressions from
the Social Business Labs for all who have not been
able to participate this time.
We are looking forward to welcoming you to one of
the upcoming Social Business Labs, which will
take place in many different countries all around
the world.
Read it with joy!
Your GCL Team
The idea of social business as defined by Nobel
Peace Prize Laureate Professor Muhammad
Yunus is a growing movement globally.
More and more social businesses are created with
the clear focus on solving social problems in a
financially self-sustainable way, addressing social
problems within healthcare, environment,
education, and many other areas.
Under the Patronage of His Highness Shaikh
Mohammed Bin Mubarak Al Khalifa (Deputy Prime
Minister), Family Bank organized the First Social
Business Week from 16th – 19th September 2012
in association with The Grameen Creative Lab.
As an integral part of this week, two Social
Business Labs took place with different
stakeholders from Bahrain. Representatives of civil
society, students, young leaders, businesses and
the government came together in order to explore
the idea of social business, share perspectives and
best practices, and develop concrete social
business ideas addressing a variety of social
problems.
// OVERVIEW //
// AGENDA //
Sunday Public Speech and Panel Discussion
16-09-2012 BCCI Tower (Bait Al Tijjar)
// Keynote speech by Prof. Muhammad Yunus and welcome address
by Dr. Fatima al Balooshi (Minister of Social Development) //
Monday Open Social Business Lab
17-09-2012 National NGO Support Center
// The Open Social Business Lab brought together representatives
from businesses, NGOs, the government and civil society //
Tuesday Social Business Lab for Youth Part I
18-09-2012 University of Bahrain
Wednesday Social Business Lab for Youth Part II
19-09-2012 BCCI Tower (Bait Al Tijjar)
// This 1.5 day Social Business Lab was specifically focusing on Youth
and some of the challenges they face in Bahrain //
// WHAT IS YOUR WISH //
// Every journey starts with a wish. At the beginning of the Open Social Business Lab
and the Social Business Lab Youth, participants had time to think about their wishes and
to share them with the group //
“I wish that my small ideas will see
the light one day”
” I wish my dreams come true "
” Make a difference in society and
do a great impact for the youth"
” I wish for all to have free
access to hospital of any kind for
any remedy"
” To be an entrepreneur”
” I wish that we reach an end of
poverty"
” I wish everyone has a decent life
with sustainable jobs and a secured
monthly income”
” I wish that I can achieve
something in the future that
people will remember for a long
time"
” No starvation & corruption"
” Social cohesion and harmony”
” To help people to be unique”
” To make a difference"
” To develop the educational
system"
// YOUR WISH //
“We want everyone in Bahrain to have
the opportunity to get a suitable job”
”Empower our youth at a global
scale by providing education,
global skills, health, services"
” Youths can create their own
business and they have the
suitable environment and
system to do this."
” Entrepreneurship as an
unemployment solution"
” Stability and security”
” I wish for everyone to have free
access to education"
” I wish to live in a world where
people are taught empathy and
no one is selfish."
” I wish Peace & Love for
everyone around the world"
” Better future for our children"
” To prepare Bahrainis for
the global challenges ”
“To be a more positive person”
” Women empowerment”
”Make the world a better place
to live in"
” That the world lives in
peace& harmony"
// YOUR WISH //
// SOCIAL PROBLEMS //
// During this brainstorming session, participants identified and prioritized the most
prevalent social problems and the strengths in Bahrain //
// SOCIAL PROBLEMS //
+ Friendly Business Environment
+ Public Creative Community
+ Open Minded
+ Financial Hub
+ Friendly People & Committed People
+ A Strong Family Unit
+ Team Work Environment
+ High Education
+ Variety of Businesses
+ Good Infrastructure
+ Ethical People & Peaceful Community
+ Helpful Charity Organizations
+ Free Education & Hospitals
+ Respecting Diversity
+ Island with Strategic Location
+ Good Networks with other Countries
// STRENGHTS OF BAHRAIN //
// BREAKOUT SESSIONS //
// During the breakout sessions, participants had time to develop and refine
concrete social business ideas addressing various social problems //
// BREAKOUT SESSIONS //
// During the breakout sessions, participants had time to develop and refine
concrete social business ideas //
// BREAKOUT SESSIONS //
1) Education
2) Open Topic – Obesity and lack of nutritional awareness
3) Open Topic - Agriculture
5) Education for Youth
6) Youth Activities
7) Open Topic - Youth
4) Youth Employment
// 1 // EDUCATION //
// 1 // EDUCATION //
With the lowest illiteracy rate in the whole Gulf Region, and with 52% of the Bahraini population above
the age of 15 having a secondary or higher degree, people in Bahrain have good starting conditions on
the labor market. However, 39% of the total number of unemployed that are receiving unemployment
benefits are university graduates, implying that even with a secondary and above degree, it is not easy
for Bahrainis to find a job in Bahrain. Additionally, youth labor force participation is comparatively low in
Bahrain, with youth constituting around 48% of the total number of unemployed.
Currently, around 4,000 Bahrainis with at least a college degree are entering the job market every year.
This number is increasing steadily and about 70,000 new jobs need to be created for Bahrainis in total by
2020. That is around 8,750 jobs annually.
One reason for this lack of job offerings, according to the Economic Vision 2030, is a mismatch between
labor market needs and current available qualifications. Graduates from education facilities in Bahrain are
lagging behind in certain skills compared to their peers from around the world competing for jobs with
them.
While the problem of highly qualified, yet unemployed Bahrainis is multidimensional the discussion during
the breakout session centered around certain skills and knowledge that students are only occasionally
getting in contact with during their studies.
As the discussion showed, the possibility of finding a job hinges often on soft skills that were not picked
up in school. Another problem graduates are faced with when looking for jobs is the challenge of getting
an overview about the options that exist on the job market after receiving a degree.
Social Problem
I like a challenge 100 Days, 100 People, 100 Jobs
The social business idea is to create a TV show that revolves around one hundred people taking up the
challenge of getting a job within one hundred days. The concept is borrowed from shows like “The
Dragon’s Den” or “The Apprentice” and aims at not only bringing 100 people into new jobs but also to
bring education into the living rooms of Bahrainis and serve as a role model.
In cooperation with companies that seek suitable employees, the show will follow the efforts of the
candidates in finding jobs. During the show candidates receive counseling with regards to matching their
skills to open jobs on the labor market. Additional training in soft skills will be offered to the contestants,
as well as CV mentoring and interview coaching.
Through its operation the show will generate examples educating the public about best practices and
possibilities on the job market. Additional products like workshops and mentoring will be offered to the
unemployed that have not been chosen for the TV-Show at a service charge.
Companies that are looking for suitable employees are given the opportunity to offer or sponsor
workshops relevant to their field of work, building relations with job seekers. Also, to the alumni of the
show, a club membership will be offered to create a network of supporters. Through the club
membership, alumni get the chance to showcase the sustainability of their employment and get access to
follow up services. Best practices and long term examples collected on this occasion can also be
included into the current season of the show.
Vision: To educate a broad public about the job market and necessary soft skills and to support
people in finding jobs
Goal: Help 180 people find a long term engagement in a new job during the first two seasons, reach
an audience share of 10%.
// 1 // EDUCATION //
Social Business Idea
// 1 // EDUCATION //
Customer Segments
1
Customer Relationships
4
Channels
3
Value Proposition / Products
2
Cost Structures
9
Key Activities
7
Key Resources
6 5
Revenue Streams
Key Partnerships
8
1. Companies
2. General public
3. Unemployed
1. TV show and YouTube channel
2. Website, newsletter and blog
3. Mentoring services
4. Best practice examples
5. Additional products like
workshops and a club for
alumni
1.Television broadcaster
2. Website, You Tube and blog
1.Companies: find suitable
employees, place company
prominently
2.Unemployed: find a job, get
training in relevant fields
3.General public: get information
about job market requirements,
possibility to get training and
mentoring
1. Advertising during TV show
2. Phone “rake off” from show
(audience calling to vote)
3. Workshop fees
4. “CSR in action foundation”
1. Connection to broadcaster
2. Collaboration with companies
3. Unemployed participants
4. Experts for training and
mentoring
1. Drafting of program and build of
partnerships with companies
2. Application process and
selection of suitable candidates
3. Awareness workshops
4. Follow up with “alumni” of the
show
1. Media, banks, and companies
2. Government institutions like
Tamkeen as patron
3. Ashoka
1. Broadcasting
2. HR
3. Equipment
4. Marketing
// 2 // OBESITY //
Within this “Open Topic” breakout session, the participants had to identify the social problem which they
would like to work on. The group decided to focus on health related issues, specifically on obesity and the
lack of nutritional awareness.
Obesity is more and more becoming a problem on a global scale, not only in developed countries, but
also in developing countries.
Obesity is a medical condition usually defined as a condition of abnormal or excessive fat accumulation,
which may have severe negative effects on health, increasing the likelihood of heart diseases, type 2
diabetes, sleep apnea and osteoarthritis, amongst others. In many cases, obesity is related to significant
food energy intake, but also a lack of physical activity and to some extent also due to genetic
susceptibility.
According to a report in the Bahrain Medical Bulletin, it was concluded that the “prevalence rates for
obesity in Bahrain are higher than predicted and are increasing at a higher rate than the global average.
This mirrors the alarming increase in the prevalence of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in Bahrain”*
The group discussion revealed many local specifications and aspects which might contribute to the
incidence of obesity in Bahrain. Improper eating habits combined with relatively big portion sizes might
contribute to obesity as well as a general lack of nutritional awareness, which is supported by a lack of
understanding about the ingredients and nutritional facts of food products.
* Source: http://www.bahrainmedicalbulletin.com/march_2012/Current_Prospectus_Obesity.pdf
// 2 // OBESITY //
Social Problem
Health Oasis – Your health is our concern
The group developed the idea of Health Oasis, a unique place, where people are not only able to eat
healthy and nutritious food, but where they are also able to learn more about a healthy nutrition and
healthy lifestyle through cooking courses and personal counseling. Therefore, Health Oasis is far more
than a typical restaurant. Instead, it aims at becoming a place providing customers with an environment
for more nutritional awareness and moreover tools and food products for a better nutrition.
The Health Oasis will basically target a broad customer base of every age from Bahrain with a special
focus on families, but also focusing on tourists from all around the world. Customers can eat healthy
dishes on site and they can also purchase healthy snacks and specifically selected food baskets, which
are a compilation of healthy ingredients, which can be cooked at home.
Next to healthy and good quality food prepared by a top chef, the quality of the counseling through
personal trainers, as well as a nice and welcoming location are key resources for the success of this
social business. Customers will be able to receive a free one time counseling service, which could be
extended into a long term counseling and coaching.
A good customer relationship management is important to build up a faithful customer base. The social
impact of this social business obviously comes into effect, if customers visit the Health Oasis on a regular
basis, since changing specific eating habits will require some time. Furthermore, only a good customer
base will enable the financial sustainability of this social business.
// 2 // OBESITY //
Social Business Idea
// 2 // OBESITY //
Customer Segments
1
Customer Relationships
4
Channels
3
Value Proposition / Products
2
Cost Structures
9
Key Activities
7
Key Resources
6 5
Revenue Streams
Key Partnerships
8
1. Families
2. Tourists
1. Healthy meals
2. Healthy snacks
3. Food baskets
4. Cooking courses
5. Counseling
1. Direct sales on site
2. Through partners
1. Database
2. Free one time services
3. Loyalty card
4. Online platform
5. Promotional movie
1. Food sales
2. Course fees
3. Counseling fees
1. Natural & healthy food
2. Good counseling
3. Good chef
4. Affordability
5. Branding
1. Developing meals, menu &
theme
2. Finding venue
3. Finding staff / trainers
4. Establish partnerships
5. Get funding
1. Farmer
2. Doctors
3. Nutritionists
4. Personal trainer
5. Ministry of Health
6. Oversize shops
1. Venue / Equipment
2. Staff & Training
3. Raw material
4. Operating costs
5. Marketing
// 3 // AGRICULTURE //
Around 50 years ago, Bahrain enjoyed a thriving agricultural industry, on which the economy was heavily
dependent, and Bahrain was known as the 'Land of a Thousand Palm Trees'.
Today, agriculture forms only 0.5% of Bahrain’s current GDP. Its contribution to employment has
significantly diminished and arable land is becoming very scarce.
The agricultural sector accounted for only 1 percent of gross domestic product (GDP) in 1998 and
employed 2 percent of the workforce. The development of agriculture is hindered by lack of water and the
strong saltiness (salinity) of the soil. From 1971 until the beginning of the 21st century, Bahrain's
cultivated area has been reduced from around 6,000 hectares to less than 1,500 hectares.
Moreover, in the event of a global pandemic, Bahrain would not be able to provide sustenance for its
population.
The group has decided to tackle this issue in light of global food security threats; and the opportunity for
the agriculture industry to simultaneously provide employment, contribute to economic growth, and
secure food for Bahrain and the MENA region.
// 3 // AGRICULTURE //
Social Problem
Bahrain Urban Farming (BUF) Social Business Coop
We will introduce new methods of urban farming, which will be available to any type of user. Our social
business will be called: Bahrain Urban Farming Social Business Co-op; also known as BUF.
Since food is the sustenance of life, BUF will literally target everyone, including ordinary households,
local farmers, supermarkets, restaurants and luxury hotels. The BUF brand will remain family-oriented,
providing a sense of community for those who go BUF.
BUF will access the most cutting-edge urban farming methods and technologies; linking to major
research and development centers around the world. Our objective is to simplify urban farming solutions
for the benefit of all. Therefore, all of our products will be user-friendly, and you will be trained by our
urban farm specialists so anyone can manage his or her own farm without any assistance.
We will be targeting all income levels whereby the client can purchase the equipment, lease it, and even
establish a payback contract through food production. BUF will also collect waste or rotten produce,
which will be composted and sold as fertilizer. In addition to selling the highest quality products, BUF will
also provide product installation, servicing, maintenance, and after-sales service, as well as a buy-back
program for used products.
Some examples of urban farming technologies include:
The Plant: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zMBxJTQqnRI
Vertical Farms: http://www.verticalfarm.com
Vertical greenhouses: http://bit.ly/Q8mAmh
Aquaponics: http://aquaponics.com
// 3 // AGRICULTURE //
Social Business Idea
Bahrain Urban Farming (BUF) Social Business Coop
BUF will offer a double-brand distribution strategy, catering to both high-end consumers—offering luxury
urban farming methods; as well as providing affordable products and services through its mass
distribution channels—making home-grown organic food available to all.
To ensure BUF is self-sustainable, three main revenue streams were identified:-
Supply cutting-edge high-quality urban farming technology solutions across all price ranges.
Provide the full spectrum of tested supplies needed to cultivate urban farms, including the highest quality
seeds and fertilizers.
Offer after-sale services including the re-sale of customers’ excess produce to high-end grocers,
collecting rotten food to create fertilizer, consultancy on urban farming methods, and individual and group
training for farm labour.
// 3 // AGRICULTURE //
Social Business Idea
// 3 // AGRICULTURE //
Customer Segments
1
Customer Relationships
4
Channels
3
Value Proposition / Products
2
Cost Structures
9
Key Activities
7
Key Resources
6
5
Revenue Streams
Key Partnerships
8
1. Ordinary households
2. Local farmers
3. Supermarkets
4. Restaurants
5. Luxury hotels
1. Simplify urban farming
solutions for the benefit of all
2. We will provide urban farming
technology and services
1. Double-brand distribution
strategy, catering to high-end
consumers offering luxury urban
farming methods; as well as
providing affordable products and
services through its mass
distribution channels
1. Good after-sale services to
ensure a loyal customer base
1. Sales from urban farming
technology solutions across all
price ranges.
2. Full spectrum of supplies incl.
highest quality seeds & fertilizers
3. Re-sale of customers’ excess
produce to high-end grocers
4. Rotten food to create fertilizer,
consultancy on urban farming
methods, individual & group
training for farm labour
1. Cutting-edge high-quality
urban farming technology
solutions
2. Good after-sale infrastructure
& services
1. Providing urban farming
solutions
2. Hire staff
3. Build sales and after-sale
channels
1. Chamber of Commerce
2. Ministry of Agriculture &
Municipalities
3. Tamkeen
4. BDB
5. Local Farmers
6. Major Food importers & distributors
1. Costs of goods (technology,
supplies, etc.)
2. HR costs
3. Operating expenses
// 4 // YOUTH EMPLOYMENT //
Not only in the context of the global Economic and Financial Crises, employment is always a
predominant concern, especially for the most vulnerable groups in the labor market, such as
marginalized people, the elderly and especially young people, who are lacking adequate skills and / or
work experience.
Youth labor force participation is very low in Bahrain; however it is not clear if this is due to high
unemployment or high enrollment rates.
The enrollment rate among the 15-19 age group is much higher than that of the 20-24 age group, 95%
compared to 43%. The share of the unemployed among the 20-24 age group is also higher at 6%. Even
though that number is much lower than the global level (the OECD rate for 2010 was 16.7% and 2011
was 16.2%)
Unemployment among youth is relatively low at 3% for 15-24 and at 6% for 20-24 year olds.
Nonetheless, youth constitutes 48% of the unemployment figure in Bahrain.
Between 4,000 and 5,000 Bahrainis with at least a college degree have entered the job market annually
in the past years. Between 2010 and 2011, the private sector only created 1,321 jobs with an annual
salary higher than BHD 6,000.
Bahrainis have a disadvantage on the labor market in Bahrain compared to foreign workers, as the
education system does not yet provide young people with the skills needed for the job market. This can
also be seen by the share of recipients of unemployment benefits holding a university degree of 39%.
The overall workforce of Bahrainis is growing; about 40% of the additional workforce by 2020 will be in
the age bracket of 15-24.
Compared to the average increase in labor productivity of 21% worldwide over the past 25 years, Bahrain
improved this number by only 17% in the same time.
// 4 // YOUTH EMPLOYMENT //
Social Problem
Micro Bahrain
Generating employment opportunities as a startup in Bahrain might face a key challenge to find suitable
employees, since employees usually prefer to work for large corporations or for the Government, which
might provide a higher job security, a more stable income and higher reputation.
Micro Bahrain addresses these challenges and specifically focuses on employment generation for hard-
to-employ young people by offering attractive employment opportunities through a unique concept.
Micro Bahrain is best described as a unique, traditional space with 10-20 small villas offering
accommodation for tourists, but also shops with local food and products, as well as a gallery space with
local art. Therefore, Micro Bahrain will not only generate youth employment, but also provide a platform
for local farmers and food produces, but also local artists to present and sell their products.
The compound and the villas will be designed in partnership with universities from Bahrain, whose
students are in charge of the traditional design elements. The offerings are not only aimed at tourists who
can experience a more traditional stay in Bahrain, but also aim at locals, who will come to the compound
in their leisure time to experience good food and have a nice and pleasant stay.
Purpose:
1) To provide unique employment opportunities for hard-to-employ young people
2) To preserve traditional & authentic cultural goods & products from Bahrain
3) To provide visitors with a unique micro view of Bahraini tradition
// 4 // YOUTH EMPLOYMENT //
Social Business Idea
// 4 // YOUTH EMPLOYMENT //
Customer Segments
1
Customer Relationships
4
Channels
3
Value Proposition / Products
2
Cost Structures
9
Key Activities
7
Key Resources
6 5
Revenue Streams
Key Partnerships
8
1. Tourists
2. Bahrainis
1. Compound with 10-20 villas for
accommodation
2. Shop with local products
3. Local food
4. Gallery with local art
1. Direct Sales on location
1. Personal relationships
2. Website
1. Accommodation fee per night
2. Sales of local products & food
3. Renting gallery space
1. Venue
2. HR
3. Brand
1. Business plan
2. Market research
3. Find investors
4. Clarify legal issues
5. Vision & Mission
6. Find location
7. Find HR resources
1. Tamkeen, EDB and other local
organizations
2. Universities
3. Government
4. Schools
1. Venue (Rent or Buy)
2. HR Costs
3. Equipment / Furniture
4. Operating expenses
5. Setup costs
// 5 // EDUCATION FOR
YOUTH //
One of the reasons for unemployment among youth in Bahrain relates to the lack of adequate skills and
education.
17% of the Bahraini population above the age of 15 has a below primary education, i.e. is illiterate or can
only read and write, resulting in lower employment possibilities for them. Bahrainis with an above
secondary degree that receive unemployment benefits make up around 39% of the total number of
unemployed. This problem is also addressed in the Economic Vision 2030, stating that there is a major
mismatch between labor market needs and current available qualifications of Bahrainis.
While a multitude of possibilities to improve the quality of education were discussed in this breakout
session, participants – especially the students among them – agreed that on of the most pressing needs
is to create an enabling environment to study effectively, including possibilities for students to learn
outside classes, teaching methods and a lack of possibilities to pick up certain skills necessary for the
labor market.
Especially the lack of public spaces like libraries as a place to study was stated as a major impairment for
students to study after classes. With a lack of suitable space at home, many students resort to studying
at cafés in malls with a less than optimal environment for studies.
Additionally, classes to pick up soft skills and job specific training for e.g. specialized software and other
skills are scarce at universities. To prepare for the job market, students need to pick up these skills
outside the university to increase their chances to find a job. Often this means a search for private tutors
or mentors that are in a convenient location.
In summary, a place which offers all of the above, providing a suitable place for studies after class with an
adequate infrastructure and the possibility to pick up skills was found to be missing in Bahrain so far.
// 5 // EDUCATION FOR
YOUTH //
Social Problem
Perfect Café
The Perfect Café creates a central meeting point and space for studying, exchanging ideas, getting
additional training and access to the necessary infrastructure. It also offers space for private tutoring and
additional soft skills workshops providing students with an enabling environment for studying after
classes.
The café is set up as a regular coffee shop targeting walk-in customers as well as students at the usual
market prices, offering snacks and drinks. The coffee shop activities are needed to then cross subsidize
other services for students.
Main activity of the café is to provide students with a suitable workspace for their studies, offering access
to the necessary infrastructure including such services as copying, printing, binding, Wi-Fi and tutoring
labs. Additional services could be offered in the field of soft skills mentoring, career counseling, internship
programs etc.
For services offered, students are charged affordable prices, subsidized through revenues from the
coffee shop. Renting of work spaces to PhD students and private tutors is priced at market level.
The business model also includes partnerships with private companies. Companies looking for suitable
graduates get the opportunity to offer workshops for the skill set related to their field of work. This way the
companies can build relations with students before graduation, increasing their visibility.
Additionally retired professors and teachers can be employed to integrate them into society and profit
from their lifelong experience.
Vision: To provide an enabling environment for students in Bahrain to study after classes and offer
training in additional, much needed skills.
Goal: Reach 2,000 students within the first year of operation and expand services to at leas three
new locations in Bahrain in the second year.
// 5 // EDUCATION FOR
YOUTH //
Social Business Idea
// 5 // EDUCATION FOR
YOUTH //
Customer Segments
1
1. Students
2. Café customers
3. Private tutors
4. Companies
Value Proposition
2
1. Open space for students
including an infrastructure
including Wi-Fi, printing,
copying, binding etc.
2. Private tutoring labs
3. Booking of working stations
4. Coffee business
Channels
3
1. Coffee shop with attached
working spaces
Customer Relationships
4
1. Beginning with a promotional
campaign for the relevant
customers including initial
discounts
2. Flyers distributed at
universities
3. Word of mouth
5
Revenue Streams
1. Revenues from coffee shop
activities and working space
including sales of snacks and
drinks, access to Wi-Fi, work
stations, tutoring labs etc.
2. Revenues from additional
services, like mentoring and
career counseling
Cost Structures
1. Rent
2. HR
3. Supplies (Foodstuff, printing
etc.)
4. Equipment
5. Marketing
9
Key Resources
6
1. Coffee shop with sufficient
space for activities
2. Connection to whole seller
3. Retired professors and
teachers
4. Private tutors
Key Activities
7
1. Find a suitable shop and
skeleton crew
2. Initial promotion campaigns
3. Establish connections with
companies and universities
Key Partnerships
8
1. Schools
2. Companies
3. Retailers & grocery stores
4. NGOs
5. Joint venture partners
6. Banks and investors
// 6 // YOUTH ACTIVITIES //
There is a lack of youth-targeted community centers predominantly in the village areas. Most of the
youth in these areas have the accessibility to join their local sports club. The centers within the areas
have a limited capacity to accommodate all. This in turn results in a large number of inactive youth.
Government-owned social centers are also located in areas including but not limited to Muharraq, Boori,
Jedhafs, Hamad Town, Sitra, Riffa, Manama and Isa Town. However, there aren’t many youth-targeted
initiatives as these centres offer initiatives for more marginalized groups including the blind, the disabled,
widows, etc.
Although there are different types of centres available in all areas of Bahrain, sufficient capacity for youth
is missing.
During the group discussion the participants have raised three main concerns relates to youths & their
activities:
1) There is a lack of awareness about the existing Youth Societies, although there are around 26
societies related to Youth in Bahrain
2) Very Expensive Prices for Activities in Bahrain: for example carting in Formula One will be around
BD. 14
3) Lack of motivating youth group activities
// 6 // YOUTH ACTIVITIES //
Social Problem
Youth to You (YY)
Youth to You (YY) is a website which will offer different services to the public by optimizing the resources
of youth and benefit from the capabilities that they can provide for the community.
Solutions for the Issues:
• Raising awareness of Youth Societies
• Launch Discounted activities Card
• Promoting youths production & activities
The group was divided into 3 sub groups, which each discussed different solutions related to the Social
Business:
1st Group, Raising awareness of Youth Societies :
Focal Point: The website will consist of link that will act as a focal point between all societies in Bahrain
such as the database of the 26 societies and their ongoing activities and categorize them in which filed
they are in such as sports, IT, Engineering etc.
Calendar: This link will also include a calendar where any visitor can click on the date and find what are
the recent activities undertaken by the youth societies.
Facilities: On the other hand the team also decided that they can also benefit from using the facilities of
the societies such as the know-how experience, Human Recourses, Equipments etc.
// 6 // YOUTH ACTIVITIES //
Social Business Idea
Youth to You (YY)
2nd Group: Promoting Youths Production & Activities:
The website will have a link that will create networking between buyers & sellers in the following fields
where the client can sign up in the website and upload their talented work and the website will start
finding a buyer to such activity hence that the website will take a percentage of the deal:
Media: Movie Producing, Music, Lyrics, Photography etc.
Inventions: any creative products/ services
Arts: any designs, logos, paintings, drawings etc.
Services: packaging, delivery, workshop etc.
3rd Group: Discount Cards:
These discounted cards will be given upon client’s registration in the website where they will benefit from
many promotional products and services such as activities, travel tickets, stationary, cloths, food etc. The
registration fee will be BD. 20 semiannual, and this fee will be used to cover the costs of initiating the
website.
// 6 // YOUTH ACTIVITIES //
Social Business Idea
// 7 // OPEN TOPIC – YOUTH //
Population in Bahrain went from an estimated 724,000 in 2003 to around 1,215,000 in 2011, which is
already a significantly higher population than the 2003 UN estimate of 900.000 for 2015. The rapidly
growing population creates several problems related to the limited availability of land and other
resources.
New cultural aspects are added constantly to life in Bahrain by the growing number of expats, adding to
Bahrain’s cultural diversity. However, traditions that shaped Bahrain’s culture up to this point are more
and more considered old fashioned by the rapidly growing young generation. Therefore interest in these
traditions is low and this cultural heritage is in danger of being forgotten. Additionally, this generates a
conflict between generations, as the young population of Bahrain has cultural values that differ from that
of their parents generation drastically.
Related to the limited availability of land and public spaces is the problem of availability of activities for
Bahraini’s and to have places offering a variety of possibilities for a whole family, limiting the options for
families to spent leisure time jointly.
// 7 // OPEN TOPIC – YOUTH //
Social Problem
Smile Bahrain, the Social Business Community Park
The idea behind the community park is to create a space that offers activities and traditions, allowing
families to be in one place while pursuing different activities and spend more time together.
The community park offers services like traditional farming and weekly markets for traditional Bahraini
foodstuff and goods as well as restaurants and the possibility to rent tents for the family or organize
bigger family events on special occasions. Other activities offered include horse back riding, water sports,
camping etc.
The range of activities and services offered not only provides a place for the whole family, but also makes
it possible to experience and live the culture of Bahrain, creating an interface to the cultural heritage,
offering an oasis of deceleration in an otherwise increasingly hectic world.
Access to the Social Business Community Park is for members only. Memberships are granted to female
members of a family exclusively, however, the membership also includes access for relatives.
To finance the activities of the community park, it relies on revenues from membership fees, renting
restaurants, tents and income from the sports activities offered.
Purpose:
1. Provide a common space for activities for families
2. Keep alive Bahrain’s traditions and teach them to the young generation
3. Offer a space to trade traditional foodstuff and goods
// 7 // OPEN TOPIC – YOUTH //
Social Business Idea
// IMPRESSIONS //
// QUESTIONS & ANSWERS //
Q: Is social business more fitting to certain types of social issues as a solution?
A: Every social business starts with a social problem first. A social business is not
limited to solving the problem of poverty. A social business could address many
social problems such as malnutrition, lack of education, lack of health services,
severe illnesses, etc. Nevertheless, some social problems might be easier to
address through a social business than others. Once you have identified a relevant
social problem which you would like to address, you then need to develop a good
business model in order to make your social business financially self-sustainable.
Q: What is the difference between NGO and social business? Is it possible to turn a
NGO structure into a social business?
A: A social business is a new type of business. It is a non-loss, non-dividend
company with a social goal. It is created because its founders identified a social
problem that they wanted to address, and wanted a long-lasting, financially self-
sustainable way to do so. Usually, a non-profit organization is not 100% financially
sustainable, they do not cover all of their costs by selling products, but they have to
rely on other sources of income (e.g. donations). Nevertheless, a non-profit
organization could be transformed into a social business, if they become fully
financially sustainable. The NGO needs to identify ways to generate revenues for
their products and services, which will cover all of their costs.
// QUESTIONS & ANSWERS //
Q: Does Family Bank have social business funds available?
A: As of now, the Family Bank does not have specific social business funds
available. The Social Business Week Bahrain was a very good starting point in
bringing various organizations from Bahrain together and in the future some of
them might consider setting up a dedicated Social Business Funds or some other
forms of financing for social businesses.
Q: How can a person that does not have any money start a social business?
A: First of all you need to have a very good social business ideas, which is able to
address a social problem in a financially self-sustainable way. But moreover, you
really need to find a way to generate social impact. Once you have further
developed your social business idea, you need to develop a comprehensive
business plan including a detailed financial plan. If you have a great outstanding
idea and if you can prove that you will generate social impact, you should be able to
find funding from various sources (funds, investors, etc.)
Q: Where can we find “Social Business People”?
A: Being connected with other likeminded people to exchange ideas and to get
support and feedback is of course important for each social business entrepreneur.
You will find other “Social Business People” at conference like the Global Social
Business Summit or the Social Business Week Bahrain, but also online on various
platforms and through social media channels (e.g. The Grameen Creative Lab
Facebook Page, see the Interact section for details)
// QUESTIONS & ANSWERS //
Q: From what I learned about social business so far is that it might basically be
successful in rural areas, where there is no competition from economic businesses.
Could it also be applicable in urban areas?
A: This question implies that it is easier to establish a social business in rural
areas, which might not be true. Especially in rural areas, general business
conditions could be a lot more challenging due to a lack of infrastructure (lack of
proper roads, etc), reliability of energy supply, market size and market access due
to densely populated areas, etc.
Generally, a social business will face lots of challenges in rural areas, but also in
urban areas. The main difference might be the solution which the social business
has to find in order to address these challenges.
Q: Why is not possible to give back a fixed small percentage of dividend just for
increasing investors?
A: Social business as defined by Prof. Muhammad Yunus does not offer any
dividends on its investments. This protects the social business from never losing
sight of its over-arching goal; the service or solution to a social problem that it has
been founded to address. A social business is also about a moral commitment to a
clear focus on solving social problems.
Q: Access to capital is one of the necessary enablers to social business in Bahrain.
What are the other fundamental components – be they policies, systems and
infrastructure, etc. – that will allow social business to thrive / flourish?
A: A better infrastructure is of course beneficial for any social business. Every
social business benefits from better access to funding (e.g. through Social
Business Funds), but also through business development services provided by
social business incubator or experienced mentors.
In terms of legal requirement, a social business typically operates under the most
common legal forms for businesses (e.g. Ltd.), therefore it would not require any
specific legal frameworks.
Platforms for social businesses to exchange ideas and best practices are also
important in order to constantly improve the business.
Collaborations with universities can be very beneficial, since the university can
support with research about the social impact, but also support with the overall
promotion e.g. through specific case studies which will be worked on by students.
// QUESTIONS & ANSWERS //
// SOCIAL BUSINESS //
Thus the social business is a new type of company
and "social business entrepreneurs" (SBE) are a
new type of entrepreneurs who are not interested
in profit-maximisation. They are totally committed
to making a difference in the world. They want to
give a better chance in life to other people and they
want to achieve this objective through creating and
supporting sustainable business companies.
Social business follows 7 principles, which serve
as its defining elements.
The seven principles of social business:
1. Business objective will be to overcome poverty,
or one or more problems (such as education,
health, technology access and environment)
which threaten people and society; not profit
maximization.
2. Financial and economic sustainability.
3. Investors get back their investment amount only.
No dividend is given beyond investment money.
4. When investment amount is paid back, company
profit stays with the company for expansion and
improvement.
5. Environmentally conscious.
6. Workforce gets market wage with better working
conditions.
7. …do it with joy.
With the idea of social business, Prof. Muhammad
Yunus has introduced a new dimension for
capitalism: a business model that does not strive to
maximize profits but rather to serve humanity’s
most pressing needs.
Thus, the first motive of a social business is not
profit, and second, it does not pay its investors
dividends. Instead, it aims at solving social
problems with products and services at affordable
prices, or giving the poor and marginalized people
ownership in a business and therefore allows them
to share in its profits.
A social business pays back only its original
investment and reinvests its profits in innovations
or further growth that advance its social goals.
Although the social business is pioneering in its
aims, it is traditional in its management. Its
workforce is professional and paid according to
market wages.
This type of business may or may not earn profit,
but like any other business it must not incur losses
in order to be able to sustain itself.
In every sense the social business is sustainable:
in its direct environmental impact, its impact down
the value chain, and critically, in its financial
independence.
This is a key difference between social business
and charity. Once its initial investment is repaid, the
social business aims to be financially self-
sustaining, giving it the independence and security
to focus its efforts on the long-term improvement of
the lives of the disadvantaged.
// SOCIAL BUSINESS //
// SOCIAL BUSINESS //
// INTERACT //
// INTERACT //
Join the Grameen Creative Lab Facebook page:
http://www.facebook.com/#!/GrameenCreativeLab
1
2 Visit our website
http://www.grameencreativelab.com
5 Contact us directly and share your ideas and questions
3 Follow us on Twitter:
https://twitter.com/#!/grameencl
4 Sign up for our Newsletter:
http://www.grameencreativelab.com/Newsletter.html
// CONTACT //
The Grameen Creative Lab
Leonhard Nima
Leonhard.nima @grameencl.com
www.grameencreativelab.com