Working for a social enterprise, #whoknew it meant so much?
Celebrating the #whoknew #socialenterpriseday campaign on 11 November 2021
The Social Enterprise Futures Summit 2021 is well underway this week and it's been great hearing from other social entrepreneurs about the huge need to reframe our economy. That takes into account humanity and the planet rather than simply measuring success based on GDP growth. (Please read Kate Raworth's Doughnut Economics if you need convincing!)
Of course, the social enterprise sector has known this for a long time and we've demonstrated that it is not only possible to run a business for social good but that we're leading the way in terms of diversity in leadership and where we are meeting need. All this and the sector is thriving to boot. Even in a pandemic. (No Going Back, State of the Social Enterprise Sector 2021)
I've been struck by how often the words 'trust' and 'partnership' are used by the highly successful social entrepreneurs I've heard speak so far this week. Alongside how important it is to be authentic, to be good at what you do (or there won't be a business and you wouldn't meet a need), to not be afraid to fail, and to have empathy.
What do the people who work with us think?
We asked our employees, board members and associates for a few words on why it's important working for or with a social enterprise. Here’s what they said:
"What I like about working with a social enterprise is that you are part of something bigger, that you are contributing to change and greater knowledge which could help now and in the future." Lettie
"Working for a social enterprise means that I have the opportunity to help create sustainable solutions for the not-for-profit sector that are not dependent on the whims of grant funders. I also get a real sense of motivation knowing that any surplus we generate will be invested in the mission rather than siphoned off by some shareholders.” Ben
"Being part of a social enterprise is about doing purposeful and meaningful work that makes a positive difference in the world. At a deeper level it's about building a more equitable economic model. Eschewing capitalism and private wealth in order to create fairer, more empowered, and sustainable communities for us all." Sian
"Social enterprises give back. Even before the global pandemic, social cohesion and community were key life pillars. As we build back fairer, social enterprises lead the way in equitable and just living for all humans. " Edafe
“Knowing Data Orchard is a social enterprise makes all the difference to the work we do together. They approach work with a business mindset, but we know that any profits generated will go straight back into developing projects and innovations to help other not-for-profits have greater impact. It's very fulfilling to work in partnership with such a purpose-driven and committed team.” Caitlin
" Founding and working for Data Orchard CIC is enormously rewarding as it's about running a business based on social rather than shareholder/dividend purpose, being authentic/true to myself while delivering quality services. Not to mention exhilarating and fun too #whoknew?" Mads
"It's important to work with/for a social enterprise because it gives us a first step towards corporations that are financially, socially and ecologically sustainable and valuable." Suraj
#WhoKnew is a digital campaign which takes place on Social Enterprise Day, the Thursday of Global Entrepreneurship Week. It is a digital campaign designed to give social enterprises the chance to tell their stories, to show what makes them different from traditional businesses and to shout about the impact of their work.