Distribution

Where do social enterprises get their products from? We saw 3 major distinctions among the organizations surveyed:

How is affordable energy distributed?

Different energy products require different distribution models.
Some products, such as solar lanterns and small efficient stoves, don’t require any further interaction with the customer. Others, such as large scale generators, often need a great deal of maintenance, training, and an ongoing relationship.
Distribution models also depend on the social impact philosophy of the enterprise- generally whether the enterprise places greater value in in-depth community development or faster scale.

We found 7 primary models.

They range from high to low-contact with customers and are ordered that way.

• Community-Based Implementation
• In-House Salespeople
• Microfranchising
• Contract Sales
• Sale Through Partners
• Existing Retail Channels
• Knowledge Dissemination