The city of innovative social enterprises in the United Kingdom that can be an example for Argentina
- Jessica Oyarbide
- Jul 25, 2024
- 3 min read
In the United Kingdom, there's a concept called Social Enterprise Cities, which seeks to identify and promote local social enterprises created to solve or mitigate social and/or environmental problems through business models. Is this a utopia or a possibility for Argentine cities?
The United Kingdom has a long history of developing businesses with a positive impact. One of the local organizations dedicated to promoting this type of enterprise is Social Enterprise UK, which created a concept to highlight certain cities for their commitment and creativity in generating positive impact. One of these is Plymouth, recognized as a "Social Enterprise City." This title identifies and celebrates communities where social enterprises thrive, fostering sustainable development and community well-being.
What are "Social Enterprise Towns"?
Social Enterprise Towns are communities that have been officially recognized for their dedication to supporting and developing social enterprises, businesses that are born with a purposeful impact and prioritize the well-being of people and the planet over the generation of economic profit. These towns create a favorable environment for social enterprises to grow, offering support in terms of public policies, financing, and community resources. The goal is for these businesses, which prioritize social and environmental impact over profit, to play a central role in the local economy.
Why is Plymouth a Social Enterprise City?
Plymouth has earned its place as a Social Enterprise City for its vibrant ecosystem of businesses focused on generating positive impact. This city, located in southwest England, has implemented several initiatives to foster the growth of social enterprises. These include:
1. Institutional Support: Plymouth has policies and support structures that facilitate the growth of social enterprises. Collaboration between local government, non-governmental organizations, and the private sector has been crucial to this development.
2. Sustainable Infrastructure: The city has developed spaces and resources dedicated to social enterprises, facilitating their access to adequate facilities and support services.
3. Culture of Innovation: Plymouth has cultivated an entrepreneurial culture that values social innovation, encouraging entrepreneurs to develop creative solutions to social and environmental problems.
In this city of approximately 264,000 inhabitants, there are more than 250 identified Social Enterprises, which contribute to solving and mitigating various types of problems. Some of them are:
Moments Cafe:
This social enterprise is a place designed for people with dementia in their later years to feel at ease and receive support. It features a cafeteria themed around different eras to evoke memories and provide a sense of familiarity for its guests, and also has a dedicated support area with therapists and dementia specialists who provide information and advice to these individuals. It's a place where both patients and caregivers can relax and enjoy delicious food. 100% of the profits go to projects supporting people with dementia.
Bikespace
A social enterprise that combines bicycle recycling with job training for young people. This initiative collects used bicycles, repairs them, and sells them at affordable prices. At the same time, it offers bicycle mechanics training to young people at risk of social exclusion and people with disabilities, providing them with valuable skills and improving their employment opportunities. In addition, this social enterprise is responsible for maintaining and repairing public electric bicycles, ensuring income that allows them to continue hiring people and generating opportunities.
The Plot
It is a multifunctional community space that seeks to foster creativity and collaboration. This project provides local entrepreneurs and creatives a place to develop their ideas and projects. It brings together different disciplines and offers workshops, events, and workspace, supporting a diverse community of artists, designers, and social entrepreneurs. By promoting collaboration and innovation, The Plot contributes to a more dynamic and resilient urban environment.
Plymouth, as a Social Enterprise City, is an inspiring example of how communities can adopt a holistic and collaborative approach to economic and social development. Through initiatives such as Moments Cafe, Bikespace, and The Plot, Plymouth not only supports its citizens but also promotes a business model that prioritizes social and environmental well-being. These Social Enterprises demonstrate that it is possible to combine business success with positive impact, building a more just and sustainable society.
Could these kinds of initiatives work in Tandil? What would we need to make that happen?
If you'd like to share your opinion, learn more about these topics, or need advice on integrating impact into your business, improving your brand and orienting it toward Positive Impact, or certifying your business with positive impact badges, write to jessica@marcasquemarcan.com
NOTE https://www.eleco.com.ar/empresa-con-impacto/la-ciudad-de-empresas-sociales-innovadoras-en-el-reino-unido-que- may-ser -un-ejemplo-para-argentina
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