Uvodna sekcija (tematski format)

  • Introduction

    An image representing Social Economy environment

    SEs contribute to local development by addressing social challenges that traditional businesses and public services may not cover. By supporting SEs, LPAs can foster more inclusive economy that benefits diverse stakeholders. Besides the financial support, non-financial support is also important. It helps SEs to build networks and relationships essential for their growth (facilitating connections with investors, advisors, other enterprises, which can lead to collaborations and partnership that enhance the impact of SEs). 

    SEs often reinvest profits into community projects, thus contribute to strengthening local resilience against economic shocks. By supporting these enterprises, LPAs can ensure that communities remain robust and self-sustaining. Non-financial support from LPAs helps maximizing the potential of SEs to contribute to local development, social innovation, and community resilience. This support helps create an enabling environment where SEs can effectively address societal needs while promoting sustainable economic growth.

  • Networking. Establishing access for social enterprises on conventional markets

    This micro-lecture explores how social enterprises (SEs) can establish access to conventional markets and how Local Public Authorities (LPAs) can support this process. SEs often face barriers in entering traditional markets, including lack of visibility, biases about product/service quality, and difficulties in competing with mainstream businesses.

    Participants will learn:

    ● Why networking and market access are crucial for SE sustainability.

    ● Key challenges SEs face when entering conventional markets.

    ● How LPAs can facilitate SEs’ integration into business networks and supply chains.

    ● Best practices from cities and regions successfully supporting SEs in mainstream markets.

    By the end of the lecture, LPAs will understand how they can actively help SEs overcome market barriers and create sustainable business opportunities.