Author: Wei Wu (Student, Department of Ethnology, NCCU / Part-time Assistant, “Indigenous Culture and Industry Revitalization” Project)

In fulfillment of its University Social Responsibility (USR), National Chengchi University (NCCU) launched the “50+1” Social Enterprise in December 2020. The initiative began with a strong base of NCCU alumni and gradually expanded its network. The model involves fifty members collectively supporting one small farmer by purchasing agricultural products regularly and consistently, thereby helping to increase farmers' incomes while aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Among these, Goal 11—Strengthen connections between urban and rural areas—is particularly central to the foundation of 50+1. The initiative promotes three key values: “Support Local,” “Support Small Farmers,” and “Support Organic,” and adopts the principles of Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) to assist farmers transitioning to organic cultivation.

NCCU President Ming-Cheng Kuo, who spearheaded the project, explained that small farmers undergoing organic transition often face lower yields and higher costs. A stable consumer base can ease this process. He also emphasized the importance of supporting farmers who practice environmentally friendly farming, as it contributes to ecological sustainability and public health. The numbers “50” and “1” represent a foundational income model: if 50 people each spend NT$1,000 per month, they collectively generate NT$50,000. Deducting NT$20,000 for packaging and logistics, the remaining NT$30,000 can provide the farmer with a basic monthly income. As the number of consumers increases, so does the capacity to support more organic farmers.

Cai Su-Fen, an alumna of NCCU’s Department of International Business and one of the founding shareholders, joined the initiative after attending an alumni event where she learned about the project from President Kuo. Believing in the mission, she worked with 17 founding shareholders to formally establish “NCCU 50+1.” With her expertise and network, Ms. Cai encouraged fellow alumni, members of the student service group “Zhinan Service Club,” and former classmates to join. However, not everyone supported the concept of aiding small farmers or issues such as organic farming, environmental protection, and food safety. Despite occasional rejection, she remains committed to spreading the message.

Currently, the enterprise includes 50 core shareholders and 160 supporting members, ranging in age from their 30s to 60s. Members communicate in an online group that also includes participating farmers, such as Chen-De Zhan, a young farmer who returned to Pinglin District to pursue organic tea farming. This direct interaction enables consumers to give product feedback, and farmers can receive suggestions and insights in real time. For example, with support from the group, Chen-De Zhan sold over 60 boxes of tea within two weeks, demonstrating the power of collective purchasing.

Associate Professor Hsiu-Hsiung Tai of the Department of Land Economics and Deputy Executive Director of NCCU’s USR Office, stated that 50+1 not only supports farmers’ livelihoods but also plays an intermediary role. The platform consolidates orders and offers payment and invoicing services, so farmers can focus on production without financial stress. Beyond purchases, the initiative also promotes hands-on local experience. Travel itineraries have been developed for Pinglin and Jianshi, inviting 50+1 members to visit farms, understand the land and production processes—key aspects of food and agricultural education. Direct contact between farmers and consumers also fosters mutual understanding and long-term relationships. The ultimate goal is to build a “sustainable eco-village,” expanding from individual support to community-wide revitalization.

To date, three 50+1 enterprises have been established: “NCCU 50+1,” “Zhinan 50+1,” and “Sustainability 50+1.” Why form multiple enterprises instead of expanding one? President Kuo explained that large group sizes make cohesion difficult. Once ten such social enterprises are formed, an umbrella association can be created to manage them independently from NCCU. These enterprises can exchange resources, expand farmers’ markets, and offer members more product choices. Professor Tai added that more such enterprises are planned, either through academic departments or regional clusters—such as 50+1 enterprises based in central, southern, or eastern Taiwan. This would also address logistics challenges, especially during crises like the pandemic, by enabling local ordering and delivery.

Despite its progress, 50+1 still faces challenges. For example, the ideal of providing a basic income is often hindered by uncontrollable factors like natural disasters, resulting in unstable earnings for farmers. The platform also requires stronger promotion. A digital platform is under development to allow consumers to order products directly via the NCCU website. Greater outreach is needed to involve current students. More relevant courses should be offered to help students explore local revitalization and learn about 50+1’s mission. In the future, the initiative also aims to support and sell non-agricultural local products such as wood carvings, bamboo crafts, and woven items. It is hoped that more people will join the 50+1 movement and help expand its reach.

※ We welcome everyone to join the 50+1 Social Enterprise! Interested individuals can join via the “NCCU 50+1 LINE Group” using this link: http://line.me/ti/g/6MKp_GBDgM

(Images 1–4 provided by Ms. Cai Su-Fen, images 5–6 by Professor Lin Yi-Ren, image 7 by part-time project assistant Hailie Shi from the “Indigenous Culture and Industry Revitalization” Project)