Evolving Organizational Models: Microfranchises and the BOP 4.0 Paradigm in Post-Conflict Colombia

Microfranchises (MFs), as an innovative organizational model, aim to
enhance the productive capacity of the base of the pyramid (BoP) population
in diverse contexts. We provide original insights into the underexplored role
of MFs in the socioeconomic inclusion of victims of the conflict and former
combatants in conflict settings while advancing theory-building in overlooked
areas. To bridge these gaps, we use grounded theory in exploratory
analysis of the total population sampling of 17 Colombian social enterprises/
seven MFs financed by the United Nations Development Program and Inter-
American Development Bank. Our results suggest that MFs were the most
adopted organizational model in post-conflict Colombia, promoting the
inclusion of victims and ex-combatants who collaboratively create contextualized
solutions and prioritize community well-being, which has led to the
development of a new iteration of the BoP model – BoP 4.0 - closely aligned
with MFs, an innovative sustainable business typology developed. Its focus
on Colombian social enterprises in post-conflict settings delimited this
research. Thus, generalizing these findings beyond this context should be
approached with caution. This study marks a significant contribution by
revealing the pivotal role of MFs in promoting socioeconomic inclusion for
victims in conflict-affected regions. Furthermore, it introduces the innovative
concept of BoP 4.0, representing an evolution in sustainable business typology
within the BoP framework.