Not charity, not commerce
The social economy comprises organisations whose primary purpose is social impact, not maximising profit for shareholders. In the EU it accounts for around 8% of GDP and 13.6 million jobs.
Four legal forms dominate: CO-OPERATIVES (members own jointly), MUTUALS (members share risk), ASSOCIATIONS (not-for-profit purpose), and FOUNDATIONS (asset-based). In 2021 the EU launched a Social Economy Action Plan to grow the sector with funding, simplified tax rules, and recognition.
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