Inclusive business models? How SMEs are developing inclusive value chains and combating social exclusion in bottom-of-the-pyramid markets

摘要

Research suggests that private firms can contribute to addressing poverty by prioritising the inclusion of bottom-of-the-pyramid (BoP) communities in global financing, commerce and consumption value chains. However existing evidence have focused on large multinationals. An understanding of how small firms incorporate the inclusion of BoP communities in their value chain is critical remains under-researched. Drawing on the literature integrating entrepreneurship, inclusion and business model this article develops a qualitative study of how three agribusiness in Sierra Leone, Cameroon and Kenya. The findings highlight opportunities and challenges facing entrepreneurs in pursuing inclusive business opportunities African economies.