Project Focus Areas
- Context
A Canadian charitable organization that provides moving and storage services to individuals and families fleeing domestic violence wanted to launch a revenue-generating social enterprise. To support this effort as part of the Cascadia Cares Pro Bono Consulting Program, a team of consultants was engaged to assess the feasibility of launching a social enterprise that could diversify funding streams and support long-term organizational sustainability.
- Our Approach
- Positioned the social enterprise as a “Business Corporation with a Social Purpose”, focusing on revenue generation that would be redirected to the charitable organization, rather than relying on government funding, grants, and donations.
- Explored incorporation options (e.g., CCC in British Columbia or Nova Scotia), governance structures, and investor considerations.
- Conducted financial modelling and analyzed start-up capital requirements, pricing strategies, and potential investor shareholding models.
- Evaluated operational models such as build vs. buy vs. franchise options, vehicle sourcing, insurance requirements, and risk mitigation.
- Conducted demographic and jurisdictional research across markets (Ottawa vs. Vancouver) to identify launch viability.
- Outlined branding, customer acquisition, and competitive positioning for a comprehensive marketing and sales strategy.
- Outcome
Cascadia delivered a strategic framework and board-ready presentation outlining incorporation pathways, operational models, and financial considerations. This enabled the charitable organization to make informed decisions about pursuing a social enterprise initiative.
Project Focus Areas