Social enterprises and micro businesses can be vital, energetic and entrepreneurial. They can add an extra dimension to the business world.
There are already more than 15,000 establishments in Melbourne, employing more than 300,000 people. There is a broad spread of businesses from sole traders to multinational corporations, creating a varied, dynamic and rapidly evolving commercial landscape.
The City of Melbourne welcomes the opportunity to support this emerging sector and would like to work with social enterprises and micro businesses to create an environment in which they can truly thrive. One of the main goals stated in our 2009-2013 Council Plan is to create economic prosperity by supporting a sustainable, resilient and diverse economy, and within this, to build the capacity for partner organisations to contribute to social enterprises and micro businesses.
What defines a social enterprise?
Social enterprises are organisations which combine trade with a social purpose, where that social purpose is a defining part of their business.
The benefits of supporting social enterprise
Social enterprises and micro businesses may assist individuals move from welfare and dependence to employment and independence. In doing so individuals may break the cycle of disadvantage; connect with their new homeland; develop a sense of self-worth; overcome disability and lead an independent life.
Goal and strategies
In relation to social enterprises and micro businesses, the City of Melbourne’s goal is to develop a strong and resilient sector:
Initiative 1: Supporting social enterprises and micro businesses within the overall City of Melbourne business activities
Initiative 2: Helping to build the business capacity of social enterprises and micro businesses
Part of our plan is introducing a new pilot category for social enterprises and micro businesses – the Social Enterprise and Micro Business Grant and Support Package, comprising two grants per annum, worth up to $25,000 each, for social enterprises and micro businesses or their auspice partners.
Initiative 3: Considering and identifying the opportunities to purchase goods and services, where appropriate and possible, from social enterprises and micro businesses. Of course, the City of Melbourne, like other government organisations has a duty to make purchasing decisions that will provide quality and value for its stakeholders, residents and ratepayers.
Initiative 4: Developing a plan for how the City of Melbourne could support social enterprises and micro businesses in practical ways in the future.
Further information
Find out more about social enterprise and micro business grants.
Read the full strategy endorsed by the Future Melbourne committee on 13 July 2010.