Social Stock Exchange (SSE)

The Social Stock Exchange (SSE) is a regulated platform within India’s recognised stock exchanges that enables credible social organisations to raise funds transparently and responsibly. It is designed to strengthen trust in the social sector by linking NGOs with contributors who seek measurable and verifiable social impact rather than financial returns.

After the introductory explanation, the SSE functions around the following key aspects:

Why the SSE is Important for NGOs

• Expands access to funding beyond limited donors and CSR sources
• Enhances credibility through SEBI-regulated compliance standards
• Promotes transparency through audited financials and disclosures
• Enables standardized impact reporting via the Annual Impact Report (AIR)
• Encourages stronger governance and institutional discipline

Fundraising through the SSE

NGOs raise funds on the SSE using Zero Coupon Zero Principal (ZCZP) instruments, which are designed purely for social contributions:

• No interest is paid to contributors
• The principal amount is not repayable and functions as a donation
• Contributions are digitally recorded against specific social projects
• Instruments are closed after project completion and impact verification

Eligibility to Participate

To be listed on the SSE, an NGO is required to meet the following criteria:

• Registered as a Trust, Society, or Section 8 Company for a minimum of 3 years
• Works in one or more recognised social impact sectors
• At least 67% of activities benefit underserved or marginalized communities
• Minimum annual expenditure of ₹50 lakh and annual funding of ₹10 lakh
• Possession of valid 12A/12AB and 80G registrations

In Essence

The Social Stock Exchange creates a transparent and accountable ecosystem that enables NGOs to strengthen credibility, demonstrate impact, and access diversified funding while maintaining the highest standards of governance.