Social enterprises in the Highlands and Islands are helping Scotland tackle social issues, promote equality and achieve economic growth, a major summit on the sector has heard.
Social enterprises trade like any other business, but at their heart they have a
social purpose; trading for social, community and environmental benefits and reinvesting
their profits to deliver their social purpose.
Delegates at the Scottish Social Enterprise
Summit in Inverness was told the region hosts 20% of all social enterprises in Scotland.
The sector currently generates £53 million for the Highlands and Islands economy
and employs 1,700 people. In addition it provides opportunities for 8,700 volunteers
whose work is valued at £10.8 million.
Speaking at the Social Enterprise Summit, Deputy
First Minister and Finance Secretary John Swinney said: "The Scottish Government
is committed to enhancing social enterprise and building communities. Thanks to a
package of actions, funding and tailored support Scotland is now positioned as a
world leader in social enterprise.
"Over recent months, social enterprises have been
discussing their vision for the future. The results of that work will help us to
determine our strategic approach and the measures that need to be put into place.
Social enterprise boosts economy, summit told
15 June 2015