Event to shape future for social businesses

The European Commission, the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) and the city of Strasbourg are hosting a large European interactive event on social entrepreneurship and the social economy.

The event takes place on the 16 and 17 January 2014 and will use a collaborative and participatory approach with attendees driving the debates and identifying the way forward for the social entrepreneurship sector. The objective of the event is to take stock of the achievements and implementation of the Social Business Initiative of October 2011, identify future priorities for action and engage stakeholders in an innovative and participative environment to shape the European agenda for the next 3-5 years. The conference will also aim to strengthen stakeholder networks to support the emergence and scaling-up of initiatives and best practices, and create more ownership and awareness among institutional actors.

Antonio Tajani (pictured), European Commission Vice-President with responsibility for Industry and Entrepreneurship, said: “Social businesses help the EU create a highly competitive social market economy and are engines for sustainable growth. During the crisis, they proved their worth by showing strong resilience. We now need them more than ever for their job creating ability.”

Social entrepreneurs aim to have an impact on society rather than only generating profits for owners and shareholders. For example, they provide jobs for disadvantaged groups, promote social inclusion and increase solidarity in the economy.

Confirmed speakers for the event include President of the European Parliament, Martin Schulz; Prime Minister of Greece, Antonis Samaras; and President of the European Economic and Social Committee, Henri Malosse. Participants will include social entrepreneurs, academics, policy makers, financial providers and social activists.