Demonstrating Value

Anecdotal information indicates the amazing role of social enterprise in the health of communities. Social enterprises provide positive contribution in the economy, the labour market and their intentional involvement in the social, environmental and cultural fabric of communities, both urban and rural. Those who operate and invest in social enterprise seek to demonstrate their value as an innovative means to meet community needs, and to bring about desirable social and environmental change. They also want to understand if, and how, they are meeting the objectives for which there were created, and to use that information to improve performance. But assessing performance and impact of is challenging - while tools that specifically relate to social enterprise are emerging, they have different applications, resource requirements, and were developed to meet particular needs.

Evidence based research is needed to authenticate the actual extent to which social enterprise contributes to the economy, creates employment (especially in marginalized communities) and creates social value. A broader demonstration of the value of social enterprise to the general public, non-profit organizations, government policy makers and politicians, and the private sector will help foster the necessary relationships and partnerships that will impact social enterprise growth and the creation of a supportive environment.