Six social enterprise investors have pledged to fund 9 million yuan ($1.47 million) to support the development of social enterprises in China at the launch ceremony of a social impact investment platform held in Beijing on Thursday.

Social organizations, philanthropic organizations and commercial organizations that have a clear mission to solve social problems including poverty are encouraged to apply for the funding. Eligible applicants should come from the Chinese mainland and Hong Kong and submit their projects online by visiting dsi.britishcouncil.org.cn from the period of Aug 19 to Oct 6.

The platform is part of the Skill for Social Enterprises program started by the Cultural and Education Section of the British Embassy in 2009.

The More Love Foundation, Xinhu-Yu Venture Philanthropy Fund and four other organizations took part in the launch ceremony on Thursday.