The collaborative economy is a different way of managing human and natural resources so that social inequalities are reduced in the medium and long term. The advantage of this method is to rethink the relationship with profit, transforming the work generated for the benefit of society as a whole.
Understand the collaborative economy
So that we can strengthen a model in which equality among all members predominates,the approach needs to be much more collaborative than competitive, meaning that participants in economic activity must cooperate with each other, stimulating each other’s growth, strengthening the exchange of products and services, thereby improving the local economy.
But, you may be wondering, how can we put this lifestyle into practice?
The first step is to understand and organize how roles will be played between those who produce, market or consume.The key to this proposal is the association between people who exercise equal responsibilities rather than the contract between individuals with unequal positions and functions. The basic principle of collaborative economics is cooperation and equal commitment among all members of society. There is no competition between people and, by advancing in this system, everyone involved enjoys the benefits, we can cite as examples associations and cooperatives that buy their products and / or raw materials in quantity to increase their bargaining power, or even globally known trends such as Airbnb service that innovated the way ads, hosting and accommodation are performed.
What about entrepreneurship?
Entrepreneurship is a crucial factor for the development of the economy, whether local, state or national. Observing the demands of the industry in which you intend to act is the first step to achieve the expected success, as well as keeping open market updates for your already operating business, innovation and risks are daily practices in the entrepreneur’s reality.
This way, consumers will recognize your business as a solution and make it easier to gain their trust, market space and ensure financial return.
Besides being synonymous of new opportunities for those who invest in the company, the act of entrepreneurship represents the generation of more jobs and better income distribution. Thus, the initiative of these innovative professionals becomes responsible for a portion of the economy and generators of change for local development.
Many consolidated organizations are already aware of this responsibility and adopt “causes” for example, attitudes focused on protecting the environment, such as reverse logistics, waste treatment prior to disposal and reforestation, and concern for the future of society by investing in social transformation projects, with the collaborative economy as a great ally.
The relationship between entrepreneurship and collaborative economics
Identifying, creating and exploring new business options that can deliver profit from solving social and environmental problems is the main objective of this type of entrepreneurship, which is aligned with the concepts of solidarity, shared or network economy. This proposal aims to implement measures that reconcile technological advances with environmental conservation and stimulate people’s quality of life.
The sustainable entrepreneur, more than any other, is convinced that a company is made by and for people, and that any action causes impacts on the planet. He is also well aware that his institution depends on these two factors (people and nature) to survive.Therefore, it feels inspired to contribute to society and the environment.
The first step was taken!
To enable the growth and development of the local economy and the appreciation of the community of São Luiz do Purunã, we from the Purunã Institute have signed a partnership with Balsa Nova City Hall and the Jaime Lerner Institute. From the team efforts, we will work to articulate and build a planning base for local collaborative entrepreneurship, and the strengthening of tourism. The idea is that we can create new opportunities for local entrepreneurs and people who are interested in investing in the progress of our district without giving up the quality of life of the community.