Social Enterprise - Business Forum UK

blissy · 05-11-09, 03:34 PM

Hi all.

Wanted to get some feedback. What is the general reaction from the small business world to social enterprise? Are you willing to support them more than you would a profit making organisation? Do you think they will form a larger sector in the future? What is their importance in the way that business is evolving here?

Thoughts are warmly welcomed.

skeeter · 05-11-09, 04:13 PM

I am in two minds.

First, our country is geared around profit. That motivates entrepreneurs.
Second, if we all went social enterprise together it would be okay.

I don't like social enterprise offering better service than a business. It shouldn't be aloud. It is usually business people organising it and screwing other business people.

It's just another corporate warefare tool. Transactions are best placed in the private sector.

I've looked at a few online ones and all they are doing is destroying the market place. Now that's now good for anyone.

Indizine · 05-11-09, 04:17 PM

Moved to the N4P forum

Eagle · 05-11-09, 08:05 PM

What's social enterprise? :confused1:

Indizine · 05-11-09, 09:02 PM

Hmm, dont have the official definiation to hand, though I have it somewhere. But anyway basically its doing something that benefits a community and no one else (ie not shareholders)

blissy · 09-11-09, 01:30 PM

Quote:

all they are doing is destroying the market place.

What makes you say that?

Quote:

It is usually business people organising it and screwing other business people.

Again, why does the success of a social enterprise involve "screwing other business people"?

Indizine · 09-11-09, 06:38 PM

social enterprises are community based initiatives that have to becoime self sustaining therefore they become a competitor just like any other business. If they win business over others, then the others should get their act together. Nothing like a competitor to keep you on your toes!

blissy · 10-11-09, 08:09 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Indizine

social enterprises are community based initiatives that have to becoime self sustaining therefore they become a competitor just like any other business. If they win business over others, then the others should get their act together. Nothing like a competitor to keep you on your toes!

Agreed, competition is healthy. And just because their motives are not based in lining sharholders' pockets doesn't mean that they should be treated lightly, or with any less respect than a profit making business.