How the Social Enterprises Support Social Sustainability

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to investigate whether or not the social enterprises in Finland are in reality socially sustainable. This paper mainly draws on the empirical data gathered from surveys sent to the social enterprises all across Finland. In addition, a part of the data was also collected from four workshops that focused on social enterprises in Finland. The authors' analysis showed that employee participation was highly valued and the employees were given equal opportunities. However, the organisations needed some improvements in terms of their workplace practices. Most of the social enterprises collaborated with businesses, non-governmental organisations and public sector organisations but had little collaboration with universities and research organisations. The role of the social enterprises is still unstable and developing. Their most important role is the employment generation which has had a tremendous positive social impact.