How can we foster better relationships between social entrepreneurs and public bodies?

We have been asking this question ever since the term social enterprise and social entrepreneurship was coined. The public sector want to engage more with social businesses for better social outcomes, but the reality of this happening at scale is less evident.

In November 2018, we held a roundtable meeting with social entrepreneurs, support agencies and local authority. What came about was an open and honest conversation about the challenges and opportunities the social business sector faces when engaging with public bodies.

The Goals & Efforts Foundation have now published a paper sharing the learnings. It specifically outlines actions to build more resilient local economies, drive up value for money and release multiple social, economic, and environmental benefits.

There is a growing appetite for social value to be better measured, understood and designed into public sector working practices and to make procurement and commissioning work for social outcomes.

Taken together, we know there is real scope for the joining up of good practice and showcasing of good work that is delivered by social entrepreneurs. By understanding, celebrating, and increasing the role of social enterprise, including through working with public bodies, it can help create more resilient communities and thriving, inclusive local economies.