The UK has a long history of developing positive impact businesses. One local organisation promoting this type of business is Social Enterprise UK, which has created a concept to highlight specific cities for their commitment and creativity in making a positive impact. One of these is Plymouth, known as the ‘City of Social Enterprise’. This title identifies and celebrates communities where social enterprises thrive, promoting sustainable development and community wellbeing.
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What are “social enterprise cities”?
“Social Enterprise Cities” or “Social Enterprise Cities” are communities that have been formally recognized for their dedication to supporting and developing social enterprises, companies that were born with a purpose to impact and prioritize the well-being of people and the planet above all else. Generating economic benefits. These cities create an environment conducive to the growth of social enterprises, providing support in terms of public policy, funding, and community resources. The goal is for these companies, which prioritize social and environmental impact over profits, to play a central role in the local economy.
Why is Plymouth a city of social enterprise?
Plymouth has earned its status as a social enterprise city thanks to its vibrant ecosystem of companies focused on making a positive impact. The city, located in the southwest of England, has implemented a series of initiatives to encourage the growth of social enterprises. These include:
1. Institutional support: Plymouth has policies and support structures in place that facilitate the growth of social enterprises. Collaboration between local government, NGOs and the private sector has been crucial to this development.
2. Sustainable infrastructure: The city has developed dedicated spaces and resources for social enterprises, facilitating their access to appropriate facilities and support services.
3. Culture of innovation: Plymouth has developed a business culture that values social innovation, encouraging entrepreneurs to develop creative solutions to social and environmental problems.
In this city of about 264,000 inhabitants, there are more than 250 social institutions identified, which are responsible for helping to solve and alleviate different types of problems.
some of them:
Cafe Moments
This social enterprise is a place designed so that elderly people with dementia can find a place where they feel comfortable and get support. It has a cafeteria set in different eras, to evoke memories and create a sense of familiarity for diners, and it also has an exclusive support area with therapists and dementia specialists who provide information and advice to these people. It is a place where patients and carers can relax for a while and enjoy delicious food. 100% of the profits go to projects supporting people with dementia.
Bike space
A social enterprise that combines bicycle recycling with vocational training for young people. The initiative collects, repairs and sells used bicycles at affordable prices. At the same time, it provides training in bicycle mechanics for young people at risk of social exclusion and people with disabilities, providing them with valuable skills and improving their employment opportunities. In addition, the social enterprise takes on the maintenance and repair of public electric bicycles, ensuring income that allows it to continue employing people and generating opportunities.
the plot
It is a multi-functional community space that seeks to encourage creativity and collaboration. This project provides local entrepreneurs and creatives with a place to develop their ideas and projects. Different disciplines coexist and workshops, events and workspaces are offered, supporting a diverse community of artists, designers and social entrepreneurs. By fostering collaboration and innovation, The Plot contributes to a more dynamic and resilient urban environment.
Plymouth, as a city of social enterprise, This is an inspiring example of how communities can take an inclusive and collaborative approach to economic and social development. Through initiatives such as Moments Cafe, Bikespace and The Plot, Plymouth is not only supporting its citizens, but also promoting a business model that prioritises social and environmental wellbeing. These social enterprises are proving that it is possible to combine business success with positive impact, building a more just and sustainable society.
Could these types of initiatives succeed in Tandil? What would it take for us to make this happen?
If you would like to submit your opinion, learn more about these topics, or if you need advice on integrating impact into your business, improving your brand and orienting it towards positive impact, or certifying your business with positive impact badges, write to [email protected]
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