Social entrepreneurship and social enterprise

EESC opinion: Social entrepreneurship and social enterprise

Key points:

Social enterprise is a key element of the European social model. It is closely linked to the EU2020 strategy and makes a significant contribution to society. It is crucial, therefore, to support and promote it so that we can make the most of its growth potential and capacity to create social value.

The EESC supports the Commission's launch of a political framework and action plan to promote social enterprise in Europe and stresses the importance of its implementation at both EU and Member State level.

The EESC also calls for a stimulus to be given to improve access to capital and tailored finance instruments for such enterprises. Finally, the Commission should launch an EU-wide exercise comparing approaches to public financing which are particularly suitable for social enterprise.

For more information please contact the INT Section Secretariat