PLATPORM MODEL FOR DEVELOPING SOCIAL ONLINE BUSINESS ENTREPRENEURS

Abstract

This research aims to: 1) study the context of a social enterprise online business platform; 2) develop a social enterprise online business platform; and 3) strengthen the network of social enterprise online entrepreneurs. The study was conducted using a qualitative research approach with 15 key informants, selected through a purposive sampling method based on criteria that included government agency executives, private sector businesses, and entrepreneurs. The instruments used in the research included a structured interview and content analysis.

Research Findings: 1) The Current Context of Online Business Platforms The e-commerce landscape is growing rapidly worldwide. In Thailand, this growth has been dominated by foreign platforms like Shopee and Lazada. This has put Thai entrepreneurs at a disadvantage because they struggle to adapt to new technologies, and government agencies have not provided sufficient support for technological skill development. 2) Developing a Social Enterprise Online Platform To compete effectively, Thai entrepreneurs should develop platforms based on the principles of social enterprise. This model focuses on solving social and environmental problems while also generating profits. By incorporating the unique Thai characteristic of sharing, the platform would stand out as a central hub for community products, local wisdom products, and OTOP items from across the country. This approach would increase its potential to become a leading national platform.3) Strengthening the Entrepreneurial Network Building a successful network of online entrepreneurs requires collaboration from all sectors. This effort should begin in educational institutions, which can lay the groundwork and develop the skills needed to compete with foreign platforms. By empowering the public to run online businesses–creating jobs, careers, and income–and leveraging Thailand’s unique cultural identity, this initiative can contribute to the sustainable development of society as a whole.