The social economy is a special kind of economy

putting people before profit.

Driven by collective interests,

social and environmental goals guide economic activity.

Social economy organisations are active in almost all sectors.

Organisations include cooperatives, associations,

mutual benefit societies, foundations and social enterprises.

Building on local roots,

the social economy is based on solidarity and participation.

It aims to serve people, and the planet

by putting profit back into communities

creating jobs and opportunities.

The social economy landscape is diverse

with over 2.8 million organisations in Europe

providing over 13.6 million jobs.

For more information, visit ec.europa.eu/social/socialeconomy