Study of venture philanthropy models in India: Case in Point-Dasra

Abstract

There are 3.3 Mn non-profit organizations in India, however only 500 non-profits have a budget>$100K and very few organizations reach>5000 peoplei . According to Beyond Profit Social Enterprise, 50% of social businesses do not get funding due to lack of firmly established business models, lack of knowledge on fundraising, inability to find likeminded investors, and a lack of investors who are willing to fund start-upsii. There is a need for organizations which can bridge the gap between philanthropists and social entrepreneursiii. Dasra is an organization that connects social entrepreneurs with philanthropists by bringing together knowledge (research reports, training), funding (fund raising platforms, coordinating with philanthropists) and people. A detailed study of business model of Dasra and similar venture philanthropic organizations is required to understand the success stories and challenges and root cause behind themiv. The learning can be used to replicate such success stories on a broader scale. Objectives:- Through this study, we aimed at developing an in-depth understanding of the following: 1) Common venture philanthropic models and organizations in this domain. 2) Detailed analysis of case in point: Dasra covering. a. Inception and history. b. Business and operational model. c. Organizational and governance structure.