TAIPEI (TVBS News) — The Social Enterprises World Forum (SEWF, 社會企業世界論壇) opened Wednesday (Oct. 29) at Songshan Cultural and Creative Park, marking its first appearance in Taiwan. Global enterprises gathered in Taipei to discuss sustainable ecosystems, population ageing, plastic recycling, biodiversity, and extreme weather. The hybrid gathering represents a milestone for Taiwan's social innovation sector.
The event, themed "Shaping Tomorrow: Collective Action for People and Planet," aims to foster cross-sector dialogue and action. SEWF and Impact Hub Taipei (台北創業聚落) partnered with DBS Foundation (星展基金會), Jia Wei & Co., CPA (嘉威聯合會計師事務所), Tzu Chi Foundation (慈濟慈善事業基金會), and Chunghwa Telecom (中華電信). TVBS GOOD serves as the strategic media partner, promoting international sustainability exchanges.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, SEWF Board Chair Hélène Malandain highlighted Taiwan's emergence as a hub for social innovation in Asia during the forum's first Taiwan appearance since 2008. She told TVBS the forum aims to improve international partnerships and share knowledge. "The message is to really turn the challenges into opportunities," Malandain said in an interview.
Impact Hub Taipei co-founders Rick Chen (陳昱築) and Oliver Chang (張士庭) emphasized SEWF25's significance for Taiwan's social innovation gaining global recognition. Chen highlighted government and private sector collaboration in developing social enterprises. "Many social enterprises and nonprofit organizations have emerged through government and private sector collaboration," Chen said.
DBS Foundation Chairperson Karen Ngui (魏洪英) announced the foundation has provided over NT$500 million (around US$16.3 million) in grants across Asia. Taiwanese enterprises received more than NT$70 million (around US$2.3 million) in support. The opening day featured a "Spotlight on Taiwan" session showcasing local social enterprise leaders.
SEWF25 integrates sustainability principles throughout its planning, creating a "low-carbon, waste-reducing, and mutually beneficial" forum experience. The forum seeks to inspire new thinking among businesses and entrepreneurs by identifying opportunities in challenges. A sustainable brand marketplace helps the public understand social innovation's power.
The forum continues Wednesday (Oct. 29), focusing on the future of the global impact economy. Taiwan's Cyber Ambassador Audrey Tang (唐鳳) will deliver the closing keynote, discussing harmonious futures for humanity and the planet. The SEWF Marketplace offers free access for the public to experience social enterprises and sustainable brands. ◼