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A social enterprise is a business that exists to create a fairer, more sustainable world. They work to demonstrate that profit and purpose can exist together. That could be graphic design company creating jobs for ex-offenders, or a gym providing affordable wellbeing services to the community, or a retailer taking profits and donating 50% of all sales revenue to charity.
Social Enterprises: Business with Purpose
Social enterprises are businesses that exist to create a fairer, more sustainable world. They generate profit and purpose side-by-side—from graphic design companies employing people who find workplaces challenging, to gyms providing affordable community wellness services.
The Three Must-Haves
- Clear Purpose – Defined social, cultural, or environmental mission that benefits the public
- Commercial Income – Substantial revenue from trade, not donations
- Impact Investment – Resources directed toward purpose, with community benefit outweighing private gain
Three Ways They Create Change
- Employment-Generating – Creates jobs and training for marginalised people
- Community Need – Delivers accessible services where the market fails
- Profit Redistribution – Donates 50%+ of net profits/revenue to charity
The Challenge
With various legal structures and business models, it’s hard to certify authentic social enterprises. Purpose is often difficult to quantify and communicate.
The Solution
Social Traders provides Australia’s only Social Enterprise certification—a world-leading framework unlocking verified impact and commercial sustainability. We’ve certified 400+ social enterprises nationwide, creating a trusted network for consumers, governments, and partners.
Why It Matters
Social enterprise stands out as an alternative business model—likely the future of commerce. As consumers demand accountability and stakeholders expect purpose, these businesses are perfectly positioned to lead toward a more equitable economy.
The question isn’t whether social enterprises will grow, but how quickly traditional business will follow their lead.
