March 15, 2007 | Read Time: 1 minute
Microfranchising is the latest buzzword to take over the world of philanthropy, writes Lucy Bernholz in her blog, Philanthropy 2173.
Ms. Bernholz, who is a consultant to donors and foundations, says some people use the term when a nonprofit organization operates a franchise of a commercial entity, such as a Ben & Jerry’s outlet.
Others use it to describe the creation of small franchise operations that aim to do good—for example, a nonprofit group called Living Goods, which sets up agents to sell low-cost health products to poor people door to door.
Ms. Bernholz has been keeping a list of the most popular philanthropy buzzwords of the year and so far, two others have made her list: hyperlocal and microphilanthropy. If you don’t know what they mean, check out the blog.
Let us know what your favorite buzzwords are by clicking on the comment link just below this posting.
