What is a social enterprise?

Social enterprise is business at its best. They are innovative businesses that work to create a fairer and more sustainable world. There are an estimated 12,000 social enterprises in Australia contributing to 206,000 jobs and $21.3 billion to our economy.

A social enterprise:

  • has a defined primary social, cultural or environmental purpose consistent with a public or community benefit
  • derives a substantial portion of income from trade
  • invests efforts and resources into purpose such that public/community benefit outweighs private benefit.

They operate across various industry sectors from facilities management, catering and hospitality, to business administration and design.

Find out if you're a social enterprise.

Social Traders certification

Social Traders certification

We’ve been certifying social enterprises since 2017. Social Traders certification aims to strengthen and elevate the sector. It provides the highest standards in Australia and it’s free to apply – accessible to all businesses putting people and planet first. Find out the benefits of certification.

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World-leading certification framework

Social Traders certification is established, trusted and world-leading. Take a look at our rigorous framework and social enterprise definition.

Join our certification webinar

Join our certification webinar

Learn more about certification and get your questions answered through this free interactive session.

Join a community of innovative game changers and be recognised as a genuine social enterprise.

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Got more questions?

View frequently asked questions about Social Traders certification

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