What is a social enterprise?
A social enterprise is a business with primarily social objectives whose surpluses are principally reinvested for that purpose in the business or in the community, rather than being driven by the need to maximise profit for shareholders and owners.
Social enterprises tackle a wide range of social and environmental issues and operate in all parts of the economy. By using business solutions to achieve public good, it is believed that social enterprises have a distinct and valuable role to play in helping create a strong, sustainable and socially inclusive economy.
...and the good news, Brighton has a thriving third sector!
There were over 1500 third sector organisations in the city employing around 8000 people which is seven per cent of the total employees in the city, in 2008. Volunteer activity co-ordinated by these organisations was equivalent to 57,600 hours, which, of paid for at the same rate as third sector employees, would be worth £24 million!
The economic contribution of the third sector to the city was estimated to be £96.25 million in 2008*
We are very proud to partner with many of Brighton and Hove’s social enterprises and here you will find out all about what they do and how they help our local community!
*source: Brighton and Hove State of the City Report June 2011