Social Enterprises, or hybrid businesses, operate with two logics, they aim at achieving a socially desired outcome and they want to make a profit, or at least break even. The research on social enterprises is limited for two main reasons: the concept itself is unclear and there is a lack in access to relevant data. At CERSEM, we specialize in microfinance research where the unit of analysis is the provider of financial services to unbanked populations. Such Microfinance Institutions (MFIs) are typical examples of social enterprises. With unique access to global and other datasets, combined with solid academic research, our goal is to deepen our understanding of MFIs and of social enterprises in general.
CERSEM is one of Europe’s leading research groups on social enterprises and microfinance. CERSEM is integrated into the research group on Emerging Markets at the School of Business and Law, University of Agder
CERSEM also operates in close contact with industry practitioners. CERSEM’s team includes four core faculty members, one postdoctoral student, several PhD students, and one administrative coordinator. In addition, we have many associated CERSEM members from Universities across the World.
To learn more about the current research projects at CERSEM or to inquire about possible research collaborations with members of CERSEM, please contact the Centre’s director, Professor Roy Mersland at roy.mersland@uia.no
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