CommUNITY Barnet

Social Enterprise Toolkit

Social Enterprise People define it differently but … it is widely understood as: An organisation that trades for social and/or environmental purposes

Social Enterprises What is a social enterprise? A social enterprise is a business that trades for a social/environmental purpose. Their mission is social and they achieve it by selling products or services. All social enterprises: Are businesses that generate their income by selling goods and services rather than grants and donations Are set up specifically to make a difference – this is enshrined in their governing documents Re-invest the profits they make in support of their social mission

Social Enterprises How is a social enterprise different from a charity? Similarities between charities and social enterprises Both exist to fulfil a social mission Both re-invest the majority of their profits/surplus in doing social good Differences between charities and social enterprises Charities traditionally aim to fund their social mission through grants and donations Social enterprises aim to fund their social mission through trading activities, selling products and services to customers

Further information For any additional support please contact: