Sustainable Directions can assist registered charities and non profit organizations adopt Social Enterprise philosophies. There are many definitions of social enterprise however most include an emphasis on trading in goods and services using traditional business principles to achieve social objectives rather than a return to shareholders.

 Social Enterprises can range from business ventures that assist the long term unemployed to business ventures that trade solely to provide income for a parent welfare organization. At Sustainable Directions we can provide advice and support to establish a variety of Social Enterprise models to suit your strategic objectives. 

A Social Enterprise is a social benefit business that trades to fulfill its social mission. They combine the entrepreneurial skills of the private sector with the strong social mission of the non- profit sector to maximize benefits to the community.

Examples include:

FIFTEEN

Fifteen was a concept set up by Jamie Oliver in London in 2002 when he realized he could use his skills and energy to offer young people with tough backgrounds an opportunity to train and be employed in a supportive environment.

SIX MARY's PLACE

Six Mary's place is an initiative of Social Enterprise hub 'Forth Sector'.

It is a fully functional guest house in Edinburgh, Scotland run by people recovering from mental health issues. It competes against other tourist accommodation sites and has won several awards including the Scottish Thistle Award and a Green Tourism Silver Award.

INDEGO AFRICA

Indego Africa is a retail operation in USA that imports and sells African handicrafts.

It returns 100% of profits to its artisan partners in Africa.