Education Enterprises
IDEX fellows under the education enterprise vertical are placed in the low-income education sector, which is able to provide the greatest learning and has the most potential for change, growth and impact. Within this sector there exists Affordable Private Schools (APS) that act as an alternative to public, government schools, provide a viable option for parents seeking to ensure their students receive a higher quality education.
As consultants to APS entrepreneurs, IDEX fellows work to understand the APS business model, market and environment and identify issues and opportunities within the enterprise through a case study. Fellows develop or refine the enterprises business plan based on the case study findings, proposing innovative solutions that will increase the schools sustainability, streamline operations and increase the service (quality of education) offering to clients (families and students). Fellows are not intended teach during their IDEX fellowship, rather work with entrepreneurs to develop and implement solutions proposed in the business plan.
IDEX Fellows in Education Enterprises gain professional experience in the following areas:
- Field & Market Research
- Impact Assessment & Analysis
- Business Development
- Strategic Management & Operations
- Enterprise Innovation & Sustainability
- Policy & Advocacy
Affordable Private Schools
Affordable Private Schools (APS) for the poor exist throughout the world and serve millions of children living in low-income areas. These schools are enterprising because they offer under-served communities alternatives in access and quality of education, and represent a new frontier for impact investing.
While most countries have a highly privileged private class, APS serve a large population of the working poor and lower income families. These schools are classified as for-profit enterprises because they provide education at a minimal cost to families, averaging around $10 per month in school fees. In many urban areas, APS are serving the majority of children. Studies conducted have identified these low-cost private schools existence in urban slums and rural areas in countries such as India, Pakistan, Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya and China. APS are independently owned and operated and typically run by local entrepreneurs who realize the need and demand for private education services for the bottom of the pyramid. This budding market allows parents to have a viable option to educate their children and provide them with better educational opportunities. To read more about affordable private schools, click here.
