Affordable rural water treatment systems that utilize materials produced in country and that can be implemented without disrupting established village routines and structures are needed. Market-driven solutions are, in some cases, more sustainable in the long term because the profit incentive ensures a continued supply of the socially beneficial product. Entrepreneurs who live in and understand the local culture are the most likely candidates to successfully promote and develop a business model that is locally appropriate. On an individual level, risk-tolerant citizens have sporadically risen to the opportunities presented by great need in low and middle-income markets. These are considered social entrepreneurs, as the innovative product, service, or process they wish to sell is one that helps to solve a social problem.
Social Entrepreneurship
With partners in Ethiopia and Cambodia, the WaTER Center team is assessing and encouraging the uses of entrepreneurial activities to promote feasible technologies in each region.
