A social enterprise is a business that puts people and planet first. It trades like any other business but exists specifically to make the world a better place.
01
A social enterprise has a social or environmental mission embedded in the DNA of the business to directly address social, cultural and/or environmental needs
02
A social enterprise derives the majority of their income from trade, rather than grants, donations or gifts
03
A social enterprise reinvests a substantial portion of efforts and resources back into their mission and impact model.
These attributes are measured against the:
Five Global Standards
- 1. Purpose: The enterprise exists specifically to solve a social or environmental problem.
- 2. Operations: Decisions prioritize purpose, people, and the planet over pure profit.
- 3. Revenue: It has a self-sustaining income model.
- 4. Use of Surplus: Most profits are reinvested back into its core mission.
- 5. Structure: Legal and financial setups protect and lock in the purpose long-term.
How are these attributes are assessed, and which global standard applies?
01
Assessed under ‘Purpose and Operations’ criteria
Standard 1, 2 & 5
02
Assessed under the ‘Revenue’ criteria
Standard 3
(2 points)
(2 points)
03
Assessed under the “Use of Surplus” criteria
Standard 4 & 5
Still not sure if you’re a social enterprise?
Many businesses create impact in different ways. If you’re not sure whether your business qualifies as a social enterprise, this short quiz can help you explore where you sit.
