Liao Jianwen on Social Innovation
May 11, 2012
In recent years, a handful of Chinese entrepreneurs have set up companies that use legitimate business models to tackle some of the country’s most vexing problems — and also turn in a profit. As these early experiments show, social innovation — or using business models to solve social and environmental problems — requires a fundamentally new way of thinking.
A case in point is Spring Mountain, a company started by Liu Zhifeng. Spring Mountain produces sea buckthorn juice through a network of over 100,000 farmers in Inner Mongolia and Ningxia. Even as it helps raise rural incomes by turning these farmers into micro-entrepreneurs, Spring Mountain’s unique business model fights desertification as well.
Liao Jianwen, Associate Dean of Executive Education and Professor of Managerial Practice, Strategy, Innovation and Entrepreneurship at CKGSB, has been studying social innovation models for some time now. In this interview, he elaborates on the genesis of such business models and also the challenges associated with them.
Enjoying what you’re reading?
Article Subscribe (1)
CKGSB Report
Related Articles
Our Programs
Emerging Tech Management Week: Silicon Valley
Global Unicorn Program Series
In partnership with UC Berkeley College of Engineering
A technology management program for leaders looking to turn emerging technologies into business opportunities.
Combining proven strategies and cutting-edge research, the program helps participants fuel innovation, seize opportunities in emerging technologies, and catalyze transformation within their organizations. Designed for managers, start-up leaders, and technology investors, it includes visits to venture capital firms and technology companies, alongside mentored group projects.
LocationUC Berkeley, California, United States
Date01 - 06 Nov, 2026
LanguageEnglish
Stanford & Silicon Valley Immersion Program
Global Unicorn Program Series
In partnership with Stanford Engineering Center for Global & Online Education
A Silicon Valley immersion for entrepreneurs, intrapreneurs, and investors leading and scaling AI-driven companies.
The program combines academic learning with visits to AI and robotics labs and Silicon Valley companies, giving participants direct exposure to emerging technologies and the businesses developing and applying them.
LocationStanford University Campus, California, United States
Date06 - 11 Dec, 2026
LanguageEnglish with Chinese Translation
Emerging Markets: Innovation and Scaling for Exponential Growth – ASEAN
A China-focused innovation program for ASEAN executives and business owners responding to the impact of AI on their industries.
Gain insights from leading Chese thinkers in Jakarta, with an optional immersion in China and opportunities to connect with the business leaders driving innovation. The program offers a closer look at how developments in China could affect your industry and business.
LocationJakarta, Indonesia
Date23–26 March 2027
LanguageEnglish (with Chinese translation)
Asia Start: AI + Digital Ecosystem China Expedition
An immersive program for entrepreneurs and executives looking to understand China's AI and digital economy firsthand.
Gain the latest trends and insights, strategies, and connections to overcome challenges and support future business growth in Asia and beyond.
LocationChina (Beijing, Shanghai, Hangzhou & optional Shenzhen)
DateApril 19–24, 2027
LanguageEnglish
Intelligent China: AI, EVs & Smart Manufacturing
A three-part program examining China’s advances in AI, electric vehicles, and smart manufacturing.
Through faculty-led sessions, company visits, and exchanges with industry leaders, gain practical insights for your organization's strategy, partnerships, and investment decisions. Join an individual four-day program or complete the full 12-day series.
LocationBeijing, Shenzhen, Shanghai, and Hangzhou
DateSummer – Winter 2027 (three 4-day programs)
LanguageEnglish
