Social enterprise profitability: an analysis
In the heart of the city, social entrepreneurship is flourishing, with the local government supporting businesses that make a positive impact on society. One such initiative is the ACCESS GRANTED program, which provides funding to small businesses across various industries, including social enterprises.
The ACCESS GRANTED program offers competitive grants totalling $400,000 to 55 small businesses each quarter. Eligibility is focused on for-profit businesses with 25 or fewer employees based within the city. Successful applicants are required to submit interim reports on the use and impact of the funding, with a final report due by December 31, 2025.
Supported enterprises vary widely, encompassing health and wellness providers, personal care services, retail shops, food and beverage businesses, technology startups, fitness studios, and creative enterprises. The program aims at fostering inclusive economic growth and supporting business resilience and growth through funding and structured accountability.
Notable achievements of recipients include a broad mix of small businesses from different sectors, demonstrating social entrepreneurship's role within this economic support mechanism. While specific project names are not listed, these enterprises are making a significant impact in their industries and communities.
On a global scale, social entrepreneurship is gaining momentum. The scale of the Social Entrepreneurs' Forum is expected to grow each year, serving as the main global platform for exchanging experience in the social entrepreneurship field. The forum will provide an opportunity for entrepreneurs to connect, share ideas, and learn from one another.
To participate in the competition for state grants, entrepreneurs must register in the social entrepreneurs' registry. Currently, 215 entrepreneurs are registered, representing 20% of the total. The Investment and Entrepreneurship Development Department accepts applications for participation in small and medium-sized business social projects quarterly.
While there is no direct information about an "International Social Entrepreneurs' Forum" in the capital city, initiatives such as the Caux Inner Development Goals (IDG) Forum and the Social Enterprise World Forum (SEWF) 2025 in Taipei demonstrate broader international engagement platforms fostering social entrepreneurship. These forums provide opportunities for social enterprises to connect, learn, and share their experiences on a global scale.
In conclusion, social entrepreneurship is a growing sector in the city, with the ACCESS GRANTED program providing essential funding and support to small businesses making a positive impact on society. On a global scale, initiatives such as the Caux IDG Forum and SEWF 2025 demonstrate the importance of international engagement in fostering social entrepreneurship. As the field continues to grow, it is clear that social entrepreneurship will play a crucial role in shaping the future of our cities and the world.
The ACCESS GRANTED program, a local initiative, offers grants to small for-profit businesses, including social enterprises, fostering their growth and impact on society. Entrepreneurs looking to participate in global social entrepreneurship platforms can register for the social entrepreneurs' registry, while international engagement events like the Caux IDG Forum and SEWF 2025 further support the development of social entrepreneurship on a global scale.
