In 2007, DETI carried out a survey among 400 known social enterprises in Northern Ireland. It found that they employed 6,000 people, had 5,000 volunteers and a turnover of £335m per annum. It is estimated that there are over 1,000 social enterprises in Northern Ireland and that social economy activity accounts for approximately 5% of economic activity.

There is an increasing interest in the social enterprise model of business across the globe and in Europe, 3.5 million jobs are provided by social enterprise, delivering a broad range of services. In England and Scotland there is strong government support for the increased involvement of social enterprises in the delivery of public services.

According to Social Entrepreneurship Monitor Report 2006, the social entrepreneurial activity rate for Northern Ireland, at 3.3%, is the fifth highest out of twelve regions on the U.K.  In terms of wealth generation, job creation and social impact, social entrepreneurial activity is a phenomenon that policy makers need to take account of. Social entrepreneurship can be a driver for regeneration, neighbourhood renewal, employment in deprived areas and social reform.

The social economy sector in Northern Ireland has a long and rich tradition of providing quality services to disadvantaged communities and creating innovative pathways into employment for those excluded from the labour market. It is well positioned to assist the Executive to meet many of its social and economic goals and has a unique contribution to make to the Northern Ireland economy in regenerating disadvantaged communities and areas.

With the right kind of support, the social economy in Northern Ireland will thrive and become an essential and invaluable part of sustainable and inclusive economic development.
 

The Contribution of Social Enterprise to the economy