Artificial Intelligence as an Enabler for Financing Social Entrepreneurs

Traditional financial systems often fail social entrepreneurs as they focus on conventional profitability metrics and lack tailored support. Artificial intelligence (AI) enabled entrepreneurial support platforms offer a transformative solution to bridge the gap. These platforms leverage advanced AI tools, such as predictive analytics, machine learning, and intelligent automation, to provide customised financing solutions to social enterprises. This chapter explores the role of AI in reshaping how social entrepreneurs address financing challenges. Drawing on real-world applications and case studies, the chapter demonstrates how AI tools can bridge financial gaps in scaling up sustainable enterprises. The chapter will discuss how to ensure fairness, affordability, and inclusivity so that entrepreneurs from all backgrounds can benefit. The chapter would be of interest to academics, technology developers, social entrepreneurs and policymakers as it builds a case to use AI-powered systems to support businesses that prioritise the triple bottom line.