When you think of the word ‘business’, it can bring to mind a cut-throat world where profit comes first. But it does not have to be that way. Social enterprises trade in the same way as any other but put their profits back into helping people and the community.
For the past 10 years, Flourish Together CIC has been supporting the social economy across Greater Manchester, and we have seen first-hand what a difference it makes when local money stays local. Here is a quick guide to what a social enterprise is, and why it is worth choosing one for your next purchase.
Social enterprises come in various legal forms and are businesses or organisations that make money by selling goods or services just like any other business, where the quality is assured and customer is at the heart. The only real difference is that a social enterprise has a bigger purpose. Instead of profits going to shareholders or owners, the money is reinvested into the mission of the organisation to benefit people and planet – although people do still earn a living whilst making a difference!
Rather than putting profit first, it uses the money it makes to help tackle a social or environmental issue. The issues vary, for example; health, youth development, social justice, addressing inequalities or creating localised affordable community services, but a social enterprise will always have an ethical aspect to its work, giving back to the community in some way. You might have already used a social enterprise without even realising it. They run cafés, garden centres, catering businesses, youth services, wellbeing services and all sorts of other things.
The reason to buy from them is simple: your money does two jobs. You get the goods or services you were going to pay for anyway, and the money stays in the community, funding something that benefits the people around you. Quality and price are usually comparable with high street alternatives, so you are not asked to compromise. You are only asked to choose a different place to spend.
There are some great examples of social enterprises in Manchester. Sofra MCR CIC runs a training programme at Dahlia House Café on Burange Lane, helping women from many backgrounds build their English, confidence and work skills through food, so a cup of tea there directly supports someone moving towards employment. Hulme Community Garden Centre on Old Birley Street is open seven days a week, selling peat free, organically grown plants and running a café, with its income supporting volunteering, education and wellbeing through gardening. Flourish Together’s Pop Up Spa offers 30 minute affordable holistic treatments at their Sunday sessions and community events, while also training people in natural beauty and holistic therapies. Plus there are Media outlets like Post Community Newspaper and Reform Radio providing training and community news.
When you swap even just one or two few regular purchases for social enterprises like these, the effect on the community adds up and you can create ripple effects with your purchasing power.
If you’d like to make more connections with social enterprises in general or for work needs why not come along to the Meet the Supplier event in Manchester on 25th November, or to our upcoming Christmas Bazaars in Stockport and Altrincham in December. For more information email info@flourishtogether.org.uk
