What is Social Enterprise?

Social enterprise applies a sustainable business approach to addressing social issues and creating positive community change.

Features of a Social Enterprise:

• Social enterprise is a business;
• The business profits are used to fund the organization’s social mission;
• A possible solution for long-term sustainability (not a quick fix);
• Offers good or service into the market place;
• Requires full Board and decision-maker buy-in.

Benefits of a Social Enterprise:

• Create and sustain a revenue generating business;
• Lessen reliance on grants and government funding;
• Control the services that are offered to constituents, instead of following funders’ mandates;
• Become a self reliant, more self-sustainable organization.

 What the Fraser Valley Centre for Social Enterprise can offer:

• Connections to other local social entrepreneurs for knowledge exchange and strategic alliances;
• Connections to the business community as mentors, investors, and co-owners;
• Connections to potential funding sources;
• Learning events on business practices and related topics;
• One-on-one counseling;
• Assistance with venture selection, feasibility studies, and business planning;
• Access to a print and web-based library of related resources and relevant case studies;
• Connections to technical experts to build and position your social enterprise.