What are Social Firms?

Social Firms are a type of social enterprise that focus on work integration for severely disadvantaged people. They are commercial businesses driven by the social purpose of creating employment opportunities within a supportive working environment for people who are severely disadvantaged in the labour market.

Social Firms aim to generate at least 50% of their income from sales of goods and services. They are non-profit distributing, with any surplus being shared by employees or re-invested in the business or community in order to meet the social purpose.

At least 25% of a Social Firm’s workforce is people who are severely disadvantaged in the labour market. Social Firms have a ‘family business’ atmosphere, providing an environment where team working and participation in the business are paramount.

An emerging Social Firm will be trading and working towards achieving these targets.

Social Firms values are embedded in creating Enterprises that provide equal access to Employment that results in the Empowerment of severely disadvantaged people. The Value Based Checklist is a practical demonstration of what these values mean in reality. For a mindmap version of the Checklist click here and for a table version please click here.

For more information on Social Firms click here.