Am I a Social Enterprise?
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.
The three attributes of a social enterprise
1. 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;
2. derives the majority of their income from trade, rather than grants, donations or gifts; and
3. reinvests a substantial portion of efforts and resources back into their mission and impact model.
(How these attributes are measured against the global standards – 1. is measured under purpose and operations (1 & 2 & 5 global standards) , 2. is measured by the revenue criteria under the global standards (3 global standards), 3. is measured by use of surplus (4 & 5 global standards).
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Dream It Build It Grow It
Starting a social enterprise is an exciting prospect. Like many who are starting out, you would like to start a business to solve a particular social, cultural and/or environmental issue, but where do you start?
Starting a social enterprise is an exciting prospect. Like many who are starting out, you would like to start a business to solve a particular social, cultural and/or environmental issue, but where do you start?
Getting started.
Below are resources other QSEC members have found useful at the start of their social enterprise journey.
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Check out the free Social Startup Studio course: Social Enterprise Fundamentals.
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Explore the Sustainable Development Goals.
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A Business Planning Guide for Social Enterprises by Social Ventures Australia.
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Griffith University has provided a Business Model Canvas so you can get your business on paper.
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New Funding and Finance Models by Justice Connect.
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Queensland Government – Choosing the right business structure.
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Australian Government – Help find which licences you need.
Through a partnership with the Queensland Government, you can access their Mentoring for Growth program.