Why Social Finance ? Traditionally, finance has focused on maximizing profits. However, as social issues like climate change , inequality , aging populations , and regional decline intensify, there is a growing global movement to use capital to address these problems. Amid this shift, the concept of Social Finance has emerged. What is Social Finance?   When I first heard the term social finance, the first question that came to mind was “How is it different from conventional finance ?”   The answer is straightforward. Social finance is not just about generating profit; it aims to simultaneously solve social problems and expand social value.   In other words, social finance considers both financial returns and social/environmental impact, setting it apart from traditional finance.   Types of Social Finance   Social finance can be broadly categorized into four types 👉 Inclusive Finance : Financial services for vulnerable or underserved ...

A Story That Began with Personal Experience   About ten years ago, I worked with a colleague whose personality and work style matched mine so well that we stayed close friends even after leaving the job. We would often meet up, share meals, and talk about everyday life. But over time, our contact became less frequent, and eventually, I heard that this friend had moved back to their hometown.   Not long ago, I happened to reconnect with them. They told me: “I’m now working as a Local Creator in my hometown.”   They were deeply engaged in projects such as revitalizing the local economy, promoting the region, and addressing population decline. What Is a Local Creator?   The term “Local Creator” was unfamiliar to most people until just a few years ago, but now it is steadily gaining recognition.   👉 A Local Creator is someone who discovers and reimagines the unique resources and culture of a community, creating new value and innovative brands ...

I once visited a social enterprise that provides food care. Everyone was very busy making lunch boxes to deliver to the elderly.(Photo by Milly)    A few days ago, the elderly lady living next door kept pressing our doorbell and banging on our door. I was so startled that when I opened the door, she told me she was feeling very unwell and asked if I could take her to the hospital. I immediately called an ambulance and managed to contact her guardian to explain the situation.   After a while, the guardian and the lady came back to our door. The guardian said she had been to the hospital and there was no major problem. However, it seemed she might have some early signs of dementia.   Since then, the lady has occasionally knocked on our door or called out looking for someone. One time, she even tried to follow a delivery person, asking to be taken along. Watching this, I couldn’t help but think of my and my husband’s grandparents. My own grandparents had severe ...