From Scarcity to Shared Wealth: How Commons-Based Models Fuel Entrepreneurship
Facilitators:
Sreevas Sahasranamam – Professor, University of Glasgow Adam Smith Business School
Sophia Otoo – Programme and Community Lead, World Economic Forum
Roundtable Overview
In an era of rapid technological and social change, commons-based ecosystems are emerging as powerful catalysts for entrepreneurship, particularly within marginalized communities and rural regions of the Global South. From digital public infrastructure and data commons to Indigenous knowledge commons, these collaborative models are reshaping innovation, economic development, and access to opportunity.
This roundtable will bring together key actors working in this space to explore the transformative potential of these ecosystems. As highlighted in this Stanford Social Innovation Review article, digital public infrastructure can help overcome identity voids, bridge finance-linked gaps, and address market failures in developing economies—opening new pathways for entrepreneurship.
Other emerging examples of commons-based ecosystems include:
Good Market Global – A curated network of businesses and initiatives focused on impact-driven trade.
Indigenous Commons – Collaborative models for knowledge-sharing, resource stewardship, and economic self-determination.
AI Commons – Open-source AI-driven solutions that democratize access to technology.
e-Samudaay – Digital infrastructure for localized commerce, empowering community-driven economies.
Global Canopy – A data-driven approach to transparency in global supply chains and environmental impact.
We will also examine the growing role of international development organizations, including the UN, in supporting startups that build digital commons-based business models and redefining entrepreneurship ecosystems worldwide.
What to Expect:
Deep dive into the governance mechanisms that drive successful commons-based entrepreneurship ecosystems.
Identification of critical support structures needed to scale these models for greater impact.
Collaborative dialogue between innovators, investors, policymakers, and academics, fostering a shared knowledge platform for future action.
Who Should Attend?
Innovators & entrepreneurs working with commons-based models.
Investors & impact funders exploring sustainable, collaborative ventures.
Policymakers & development leaders shaping inclusive economic strategies.
Academics & researchers studying the intersection of entrepreneurship, technology, and social impact.
Anyone passionate about the future of collaborative and equitable economic systems.
Why You Should Join
Commons-based entrepreneurship is not just a theory—it’s a growing movement reshaping how economies function and who gets to participate. This roundtable will serve as a foundational step in creating a lasting knowledge platform, allowing key stakeholders to align strategies, share insights, and build a more inclusive economic future.
Space is limited—RSVP now to be part of the conversation!