Social Innovation: A Solution to Seemingly Unsolvable Societal Problems
Across the globe, people face countless environmental, community, and societal challenges. The initial approach often involves traditional methods such as municipal or state-funded support, services, or infrastructure. However, in Europe’s shrinking society, it becomes increasingly evident that these conventional approaches are inefficient, costly, and often fail to deliver optimal results. Frequently, activities focus on addressing symptoms rather than finding sustainable solutions to root causes. Society requires new social enterprises, NGOs, projects, initiatives, policies, and community efforts that respond comprehensively and engage target audiences. This is why Social Innovation Competence Centers are being established across Europe, including Latvia.
By definition, social innovation represents a new way to address societal challenges and improve people’s lives. It may be a new service, idea, or process that enables individuals and communities to tackle challenges previously unaddressed or to do so more effectively. Social innovations vary widely and can be initiated by individuals, municipalities, ministries, NGOs, or social enterprises. A common misconception is that social innovations apply only to social services, but they also span environmental protection, urban planning, education, democracy, governance, culture, and more. Likewise, there is a stereotype that social innovations are solely digital solutions, which must be broken.
Six Criteria to Define Social Innovation
To identify and evaluate social innovations, six main criteria have been established:
- Novelty: Social innovation introduces something new—a completely new solution or a new way of utilizing existing resources. Examples include new technological solutions or innovative approaches to problem-solving.
- Social Impact: The goal is to improve lives and create positive societal change, such as making life easier, fostering justice, or enhancing the environment.
- Involvement of Beneficiaries: Those who benefit from the solution actively participate in its design and implementation.
- Effectiveness: The innovation performs better or more efficiently than existing methods, offering faster, cheaper, or superior results.
- Sustainability: The idea works long-term, continuing even after initial funding ends or initiators leave. Sustainable ideas avoid creating future problems, like environmental harm.
- Scalability: The solution can be expanded and implemented elsewhere, reaching more people and communities for broader impact.
Examples of Social Innovations in Latvia
“Brīvbode” (Free Store)
An initiative by the social enterprise Free Riga, offering clothes and goods based on donation and exchange principles to promote resource reuse and support vulnerable groups.
- Innovation: New consumption model based on gifting and community support.
- Social Impact: Reduces resource consumption and aids socially vulnerable groups.
- Involvement: Community participation in resource exchange.
- Effectiveness: Enhances resource circulation and community involvement.
- Sustainability: Long-term growth possible through community strengthening.
- Scalability: Applicable to other resources and locations.
“Riga Tech Girls”
A program empowering women in the technology sector through training and mentoring.
- Innovation: Integrates women into the traditionally male-dominated tech industry.
- Social Impact: Increases women’s employment and opportunities in IT.
- Involvement: Women directly participate in training and mentoring.
- Effectiveness: Boosts the proportion of women in IT.
- Sustainability: Continuous educational opportunities.
- Scalability: Adaptable to other tech fields and regions.
“Housing First”
Provides stable housing for homeless individuals before addressing other issues like employment or health.
- Innovation: A new approach emphasizing housing as foundational to solving broader problems.
- Social Impact: Reduces homelessness and improves quality of life.
- Involvement: Direct collaboration with homeless individuals.
- Effectiveness: Proven positive societal reintegration results across Europe.
- Sustainability: Potential for long-term housing solutions.
- Scalability: Successfully piloted in three Latvian municipalities based on international experience.
“IziPizi” Food Lockers
Connects farmers directly with consumers, bypassing major retail chains, to provide accessible, fresh food.
- Innovation: Community-driven food locker system shortening the supply chain.
- Social Impact: Simplifies farmers’ access to markets and ensures fresh food for consumers.
- Involvement: Consumers and farmers co-designed the service.
- Effectiveness: Reduces the distance between producers and buyers.
- Sustainability: Built on a clear business model benefiting all parties.
- Scalability: Easily replicable in other regions and communities.
Role of Latvia’s Social Innovation Competence Center
The Social Innovation Competence Center of Latvia promotes social innovation by offering knowledge, skills, resources, and support to organizations and individuals. It provides access to examples of social innovations in Latvia and Europe, facilitates networking opportunities, and advocates for the integration of social innovations into state and regional planning.
Key Activities and Benefits
- Education and Training: Programs to enhance skills in innovation creation, impact assessment, scalability, and more.
- Mentorship and Consultation: Support for designing and implementing innovative projects.
- Research and Analysis: Insights into trends and challenges in social innovation.
- Networking: Building connections between organizations and individuals.
- Advocacy: Promoting recognition and support for social innovations in policymaking.
- Financial Support: Future plans include funding assistance to overcome financial barriers for implementing and scaling innovations.
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The establishment of the Social Innovation Competence Center is co-financed by the European Union’s European Social Fund (ESF+) program, aimed at fostering the development of social innovation across the European Union. The project will be implemented until 2026, with the goal of providing more meaningful solutions to significant societal issues and creating long-term positive impacts for the entire society of Latvia.
Digital Future for Latvia's Social Economy
To enhance the ability of Latvia’s social economy organizations to adapt to the digital age, the Social Entrepreneurship Association of Latvia will offer various opportunities over the next two years for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to master digital technologies and data management. These skills aim to enable more effective solutions to social challenges. Under the “Do Impact” project, support activities will be implemented in collaboration with partners from Lithuania, Belgium, Italy, Spain, and Sweden to help social economy organizations in these countries develop their digital skills.
The Need for Digital Transformation
To strengthen the social entrepreneurship sector and its long-term impact, companies and organizations increasingly recognize the need for digital transformation. According to the 2021-2022 European Social Enterprise Monitor (ESEM) and studies on digital skills in work-integration social enterprises (B-WISE), the level of digitalization within the social economy remains low. Many enterprises lack the resources and expertise to fully utilize digital tools. However, digital transformation could be crucial for more effective and sustainable solutions to social issues, particularly by improving operational efficiency through better resource allocation.
Challenges and Opportunities in Latvia
The Latvian Civic Alliance’s research highlights significant challenges in promoting digital visibility for the nonprofit sector. Nearly 60% of surveyed social enterprises in Latvia do not represent their business as social enterprises on digital platforms. Establishing a strong digital identity is vital for reaching modern consumers and enhancing visibility. The “DO Impact” project will provide training and tools to help close this gap.
Key Activities in the “DO Impact” Project
1. Tailored Training Programs
Designed to strengthen social economy enterprises’ ability to adapt to the digital environment.
Focus on data analysis fundamentals, understanding the benefits and risks of data use.
2. Guidelines and Mentoring
Support for leveraging digital solutions to enhance visibility, impact, and management practices.
3. International Collaboration
Opportunities for Latvian enterprises to collaborate with European partners through networking and knowledge exchange.
4. Technology Access and Support
Social enterprises will meet technology companies to gain access to modern digital tools and customized digital transformation strategies.
Expected Impact
The training and international experience offered to social enterprises aim to overcome barriers that often hinder the development of social entrepreneurship. The initiative is expected to enhance the sector’s ability to respond to changing societal needs, positioning Latvia as a leader in sustainable and digital social economy development in Europe. This model could serve as an example for other regions.
The first training sessions and exchange visits for social enterprises are scheduled for spring 2025 and will continue until August 2026. Information about events will be consolidated on the official website, www.doimpact.eu, which will launch on January 17, 2025.
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Goals for Sustainable Development
SDGs or Sustainable Development Goals represent the United Nations’ global plan consisting of 17 goals aimed at promoting well-being, economic growth, and environmental protection by 2030. These goals cover various areas, including eradicating poverty, ensuring quality education, achieving gender equality, mitigating climate change, and sustainably using resources.
The SDGs are significant because they help countries and organizations collaborate to address global challenges and ensure a better quality of life for future generations. They are increasingly embraced by organizations and businesses as they foster societal and environmental well-being while providing significant advantages to the companies themselves.
Many organizations integrate SDGs into their strategies to enhance their reputation, attract socially responsible investors, and strengthen customer loyalty. The SDGs help businesses define their sustainability objectives, such as reducing carbon emissions, promoting gender equality, or supporting local community development. Furthermore, more buyers and partners are demanding that companies demonstrate responsibility toward society and the environment, driving the adoption of SDGs as a global standard. This highlights that sustainable operations are not only an ethical choice but also a strategic step toward long-term competitiveness and growth.
Therefore, the Social Entrepreneurship Association of Latvia (SEAL) has also turned its attention to this topic and, using the SDG Impact Assessment Tool, analyzed which sustainability goals align with the organization’s activities.
Three Sustainable Development Goals most closely align with SEAL’s activities – 8, 10, and 17.
SDG 8 – Decent Work and Economic Growth
Eighth SDG focuses on decent work and economic growth. Economic growth should serve as a positive driving force in every country, which is why stakeholders must ensure that financial growth goes hand in hand with dignified working conditions and environmental care.
Real involvement of organizations in achieving this goal means promoting policies aimed at economic development – creating new, inclusive jobs, fostering entrepreneurship, and encouraging innovation. It also involves ensuring equal pay for women and men, including other vulnerable groups such as youth and persons with disabilities.
How Does SEAL Implement This Goal in Its Activities?
SEAL supports and provides networking opportunities for social enterprises and organizations pursuing social objectives in their daily operations. Social enterprises focus on: 1.) Employing marginalized or vulnerable groups, or 2.) Creating products or offering services for these groups.
The organization actively advocates for the interests of social entrepreneurs at institutional and political level. This includes engaging in discussions with relevant institutions on tax reliefs, legal changes affecting social entrepreneurs, grant and legal system support, and the contribution of social enterprises to the national economy.
SEAL organizes training programs and seminars for social entrepreneurs to enhance their skills in social entrepreneurship, particularly sustainable social entrepreneurship, and to improve financial literacy. These activities ensure that entrepreneurs have the knowledge and tools necessary to grow and create new and stable jobs.
In 2025, from January 15th to May, five thematic exchange visits to social enterprises in Latvia and Lithuania will take place. For more information about the event, read
By introducing social entrepreneurs to grant opportunities, various funding platforms, competitions, and promoting collaborations with large companies, SEAL supports economic growth. Additionally, SEAL provides lectures and workshops in educational institutions – schools and universities – to educate and introduce young people to social entrepreneurship. At an international level, SEAL shares its experience and knowledge with organizations across Europe.
SDG 10 – Reduced Inequalities
Tenth SDG focuses on reducing inequalities. The majority of the world’s wealth is concentrated in the hands of a very narrow group of people. This situation perpetuates inequality. For all countries to prosper, equality and well-being must be accessible to everyone, regardless of gender, race, religious beliefs, or economic status.
This goal sets the target of gradually achieving income growth for the financially vulnerable 40% of the world’s population by 2030, eliminating discriminatory laws, policies, and practices, and promoting social, economic, and political inclusion, regardless of age, gender, disability, race, ethnicity, origin, religion, or economic or other status.
How Does SEAL Implement This Goal in Its Activities?
The association plays a crucial role in reducing inequality by focusing on supporting and growing the social enterprise sector. The organization brings together 141 like-minded organizations, businesses, and individuals who believe in the potential of social entrepreneurship in Latvia and are ready to participate in the development and strengthening of the sector. The social enterprises supported by SEAL employ people from marginalized or vulnerable groups and promote the representation of women and other underrepresented groups in business and leadership positions.
The organization collaborates with lawmakers to ensure that the legal framework supports social enterprises that reduce inequality through their activities. This includes financial support, various regulatory measures, and fair access to resources. By promoting public understanding of the benefits social enterprises bring to society, SEAL encourages institutions and large companies to form collaborations and purchase goods from social enterprises.
In collaboration with international organizations, SEAL has the opportunity to learn from the best case studies within the European Union and beyond, with the goal of implementing these practices in Latvia.
SDG 17 – Partnerships for the Goals
Seventeenth SDG focuses on building partnerships to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals. Global goals can only be achieved by working together, as both international investments and support are needed to ensure technological development and fair access to markets, especially in developing countries.
This goal involves multilateral partnerships where countries and organizations mobilize, sharing knowledge, expertise, technologies, and financial resources to support the achievement of sustainable development goals in all countries. Not only international cooperation is essential, but also collaboration between sectors within each country – coordinating and aligning domestic policies for sustainable development.
How Does SEAL Implement This Goal in Its Activities?
SEAL collaborates with various state institutions to develop supportive policies for social entrepreneurship, ensuring alignment with national and global sustainable development strategies. It also works with non-profit organizations, NGOs, and advocacy groups to strengthen the impact of social entrepreneurship initiatives on government institutions and address common issues. SEAL is a member of the Latvian Civil Alliance and LAPAS, as well as international networks such as Euclid, ENSIE, and closely collaborates with the DIESIS network.
The organization actively participates in international projects, gaining and sharing knowledge, best practices, and resources. This promotes global understanding of the role of social entrepreneurship in sustainable development, enabling the application of newly acquired knowledge and tools to strengthen the social enterprise sector in Latvia. SEAL also collaborates with universities and research institutions that gather data on the impact of social enterprises.
This data is also presented to international partners to create a strong knowledge base for the development of common policies. The association promotes access to platforms where useful research results, success stories, and tools can be learned and shared. These resources can be used by anyone in Latvia and globally to replicate effective social entrepreneurship models.
Fill out this tool and find out how your organization or business aligns with these criteria!
The Value of Community Science
In 2024, the Social Entrepreneurship Association of Latvia (SEAL) will focus on social innovation, exploring ways to develop this area and introduce society to the opportunities presented by knowledge and competencies in this field. One of the latest projects SEAL has joined is a collaboration with two European technology universities, centered on problem-solving through community science methods. This approach leverages the diverse experiences of individuals, bringing together people from various walks of life and professional backgrounds to address complex societal challenges.
Citizen Living Labs and Community Science
The terms Citizen Living Labs and Community Science may be unfamiliar in Latvia, but their potential lies in the synergy created by the diverse life and work experiences of different individuals. At a time when the world is searching for more effective ways to tackle persistent social issues, SEAL is working to connect its members and practitioners with experts and researchers from various fields. Strengthening networks and building member capacity are key priorities for SEAL. Through this project, members will have the chance to find strong academic partners and define valuable topics for social innovation, which could evolve into new initiatives, projects, or even businesses.
The ValuEU Project
The Active Design Research (ADR) methodology will be employed to develop solutions in five thematic workshop series. Originally used in testing digital solutions, ADR will be adapted to analyze social issues in this project. Current thematic focuses include:
- Mental health
- Social economy
- Sustainability
- Security
- Digital challenges
These workshops will aim to build a shared understanding of civic engagement, develop collaborative networks, and make the selected topics more visible at the EU level. Workshop outcomes and resources will also contribute to the European University of Technology Alliance’s “Citizen Lab” initiative, which aims to bridge academic and community practices.
Project Details
Program: Erasmus+, Small-Scale Partnerships in Adult Education, 2024
Title: Hybrid Value Chain Enhancement in Europe through Citizen Science
Short Name: ValuEU
Project Number: 2024-1-LV01-KA210-ADU-000256712
Duration: 01.09.2024 – 31.08.2025
Lead Partner: Riga Technical University
Partners: Social Entrepreneurship Association of Latvia; Cyprus University of Technology.
Project Objectives and Activities
The ValuEU project aims to test the European innovation ecosystem model by bringing together two key stakeholders—higher education institutions and social innovation actors. Activities include organizing five workshops, each divided into three sessions. Participants will identify specific problems within major societal challenges, group these issues, determine potential stakeholders, and propose solutions. The project will culminate in a conference to discuss results and evaluate the problem-solving methodology.
#ValuEU
Apply for the first experience exchange tour "Discovering the potential of social enterprises in Latvia and Lithuania"
To promote the development of social entrepreneurship and foster collaboration between Latvia and Lithuania in this sector, five thematic experience exchange visits to social enterprises in Latvia and Lithuania will take place between January and May 2025. Social entrepreneurs, social science educators, municipal specialists and other stakeholders from both countries – primarily from the Zemgale region and Northern Lithuania (municipalities of Rokiškės, Biržai, Pasvalė, Kupiškės and Panvėžys) – are invited to participate. Participation is free of charge and the working language is English.
The first trip will take place on 15 January in Jelgava County and Jelgava City, where participants will have the opportunity to hear experiences from five social enterprises that are successfully and innovatively operating in the field of education, work with young people and in the development of local communities. The event will start at “Branku Brančotava”, Jelgava Region, where the experiences of “Mājas TUVU”, which organises camps and events for young people, “Barboleta”, which has created an innovative balance platform for learning and work productivity, and “Pats”, a private primary school that offers child-centred primary education in the region, will be shared. The day will end with a visit to two more social enterprises in Jelgava – the professional dance school “Benefice” and “BJMK Rokskola”.
Detailed programme of the event is available on the Zemgale Planning Region website. Places are limited. To apply, fill in the online application form by 6 January:
The cycle of experience exchange tours “Discovering the potential of social enterprises in Latvia and Lithuania” is part of the activities of the Interreg VI-A Latvia-Lithuania Programme 2021-2027 project “Improving the social entrepreneurship ecosystem in Zemgale and Northern Lithuania” (RE:IMPACT), implemented by the Zemgale Planning Region in cooperation with the Latvian Social Entrepreneurship Association, Lithuanian Social Business Association and Rokiskis District Municipality. The trips will be a great opportunity not only to get to know different social enterprises and their impact in each country, but also to provide new contacts and ideas for meeting the needs of society.
Each trip will focus on a specific theme, such as youth work, social services, cultural heritage and tourism, labour integration, nature and animal protection, sustainability, community building and more. Three trips will take place in Latvia and two in Lithuania. Free shared transport will be provided for participants to more distant destinations.
The next experience exchange event will take place on 19 February in Riga and the second half of the day in Jelgava County, and will focus on labour integration and social services. On 21 March, the route of the trip will lead to Pasvalė District in Lithuania, where there will be an opportunity to learn about our neighbouring country’s social entrepreneurs’ initiatives that promote the involvement of seniors and young people in local community building. On 16 April, the experience of other Lithuanian social entrepreneurs in the field of heritage conservation and tourism will be presented in the Rokiškis district. The series of experience exchange visits will end on 21 May with a visit to Ķekava Municipality, where participants will have the opportunity to learn about Latvian social enterprises working in the fields of animal welfare, nature conservation, and sustainability.
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Project No. LL-00020 “Improving the Social Entrepreneurship Ecosystem in Zemgale and Northern Lithuania” or “Re:Impact” is implemented within the Interreg VI-A Latvia-Lithuania program 2021-2027. The total project budget is EUR 595,286.00, including co-financing from the European Regional Development Fund of EUR 476,228.80. More about the project HERE.
This publication has been produced with the financial support of the European Union. The contents of this publication are the sole responsibility of the Zemgale Planning Region and do not necessarily reflect the official position of the European Union.
Examples of educational games and innovative approaches in Europe
Traditional classroom methods may not always resonate with learners or offer engaging experiences, while game based learning offers a fresh and interactive way to teach complex subjects, to actively engage with the subject and to inspire learners.
Within the framework of the “ImpactED – Gamified Social Entrepreneurship Educational Approach” project, research was conducted in four countries – Latvia, Hungary, Portugal, and Georgia – to explore the use of gamification in social entrepreneurship education and to gain a comprehensive understanding of the current challenges and good practices in the field.
Can we develop entrepreneurial skills in a fun way? // The game Pitch
How can you start to generate social entrepreneurship ideas? // Method Crazy Eights
What can help turn your ideas into actions? // EntreComp
What if your cards are just the beginning of your journey? // Game Life’s Cards
How to generate and develop solutions for social problems in teams? // Project Youth Impact
How can the best strategy help you build your company? // Board game Company Builders
Can you develop your ideas through playing? // Board game Find Your Path
How to explain social entrepreneurship with limited resources? // Method Box Full of Things
How do you sell a social enterprise idea to the market? // Method From Idea to Market
How to foster cooperation and learn to become active citizens? // Soverana – Running a Sustainable City
How to find collaborative solutions for complex challenges? // Game Didactic Mine
You can also view all the examples
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The project “ImpactED – Gamified Social Entrepreneurship Educational Approach” is co-funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed in this article are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union, European Commission or Agency of International Programs for Youth in Latvia. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.
Gamification for learning in social entrepreneurship
In the evolving landscape of education there is a need for innovative approaches in both formal and non-formal education to make learning more engaging, effective and enjoyable. Especially teaching social entrepreneurship, which involves creating solutions to societal challenges through entrepreneurial principles, requires a unique blend of creativity, critical thinking and practical skills. Traditional classroom methods may not always resonate with learners or offer engaging experiences, while game based learning offers a fresh and interactive way to teach complex subjects, to actively engage with the subject and to inspire learners.
Within the framework of the “ImpactED – Gamified Social Entrepreneurship Educational Approach” project, research was conducted in four countries—Latvia, Hungary, Portugal, and Georgia – to explore the use of gamification in social entrepreneurship education and to gain a comprehensive understanding of the current challenges and good practices in the field.
In-depth interviews with teachers, youth workers, and field experts provided deeper insights into the experiences, challenges, and needs of key stakeholders involved in social entrepreneurship education and training. Additionally, surveys with young people and students offered quantitative data, revealing valuable insights from the learners’ perspective.
Key research findings
The research revealed a strong preference for interactive, game-based learning methods and dynamic approaches over traditional methods. Watching videos, project-based learning, learning in a team, teaching others and gamification were among the most favoured methods. Common tools such as Kahoot, Slido, and Quizizz were frequently cited, although there is a growing demand for more immersive and innovative experiences, including AI and AR-based platforms.
Gamified learning utilises elements like points, badges, and leaderboards to boost motivation. The results indicated that the business simulations and strategic games are valuable in reinforcing concepts, offering learners a real-world understanding of business and entrepreneurial challenges.
The survey also discussed the benefits of game-based learning in social entrepreneurship education, such as promoting transdisciplinary approaches, providing access to engaging educational materials and fostering collaboration and teamwork. It suggested that simulation games, storytelling, problem-solving and the use of quizzes and point systems can motivate young people to learn about social entrepreneurship.
The research also emphasised the need to differentiate social entrepreneurship from traditional business models. It highlighted the importance of understanding how profit and social impact coexist in social entrepreneurship. The development of entrepreneurial competences, particularly those leading to impactful social ventures, is also stressed.
The survey results conclude by highlighting the need for innovative education methods and the importance of keeping educational content up-to-date and relevant. It suggests that educators should adapt their methods to the specific needs of young people.
Educational gaps & needs
The research highlighted several challenges:
Integration into formal education: Gamification is often viewed as a supplementary tool rather than a core component of the curriculum. Greater efforts are needed to integrate game-based learning into formal education systems while maintaining a balance between formal and non-formal learning.
Quality of content: As social entrepreneurship evolves, so must the scenarios and challenges presented in educational games. Regular updates to educational content are essential for keeping these tools relevant.
Conclusion
Gamified learning presents a significant opportunity to enrich both formal and non-formal education by transforming learning into an engaging and interactive experience. It empowers learners with the skills and knowledge needed to address societal challenges. However, to fully realise the potential of game-based learning, there is a critical need for new, accessible educational materials. As the field of social entrepreneurship continues to evolve, there will be increasing opportunities to enhance and expand gamified educational strategies, ultimately fostering a generation of innovative and socially conscious entrepreneurs.
Explore the results in greater depth
Find out the most successful game examples in Europe
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The project “ImpactED – Gamified Social Entrepreneurship Educational Approach” is co-funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed in this article are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union, European Commission or Agency of International Programs for Youth in Latvia. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.
Scaling Catalyst Initiative Announced to Boost Support for Social Entrepreneurs Across Europe
Reach for Change, ACT GRUPA, GROUPE SOS Pulse, Social Entrepreneurship Association of Latvia, and ScaleChanger have joined forces on a forward-looking initiative aimed at empowering social economy support organizations (SESOs) with the tools they need to help social entrepreneurs scale their impact across Europe.
“Scaling Catalyst is a great opportunity for us to expand our tools and empower all social economy actors even further towards scaling their impact. The project will not only increase our knowledge and skills to support social entrepreneurs in this critical point of their journey, but will also allow us to share our learnings and insights from developing and implementing a dedicated scaling readiness program,”
Hristina Popova, Head of Programs at Reach for Change.
With 91% of Social Entrepreneurs (SEs) in Europe wishing to scale their enterprises, Scaling Catalyst seeks to bridge a critical gap.
“Helping social entrepreneurship grow and scale its impact is so important – it’s what turns a great idea into real, lasting change. With the Scaling Catalyst project, we’re teaming up with amazing partners across Europe to make sure our organization and other support organizations have the right tools to guide social entrepreneurs through the scaling process,”
Līva Švarce, Project Manager at SEAL.
Although vocational education and training (VET) opportunities for this target group have increased in recent years, very few SESOs – such as incubators, accelerators and networks – currently provide training programmes linked to scaling. Scaling Catalyst will address this by equipping SESOs with knowledge and resources needed to launch effective scaling support initiatives. This, in turn, will support SEs across the European market to develop further and increase their impact.
“At Pulse, we believe in the transformative power of social entrepreneurship to drive meaningful change. The Scaling Catalyst project represents a crucial step toward empowering support organizations with the tools and knowledge they need to help social entrepreneurs thrive,”
Fanny Gonçalves, Project Manager at GROUPE SOS Pulse.
The project will run until August 2026 and will focus on creating new tools and training materials for SEs. Based on data collection and validation of needs, partners will develop and test a new Self-assessment tool and Guide on scaling for SESOs. They will be shared with a broader audience through webinars, an online helpdesk and media campaign.
“Every day, our work is to support social and solidarity enterprises to tackle their development and scaling challenges. We have joined the Scaling Catalyst project to share our expertise with other SESO and accelerate the movement towards a strong social economy, at the service of people and the planet,”
Anne Lancelot, Project Manager at ScaleChanger.
Partners will also individually develop new in-house training tools for scaling, aided by a process of peer learning, and user-testing, that will enable more widespread adoption of scaling programmes for SEs.
“We are true believers in the inclusive and regenerative economy and the only way we see this coming into reality is by positive impact economic actors being successful, robust and having a market, both capturing the local community but also having the opportunity to open new markets. This is why this project, which enables us to provide better support and knowledge on ‘how to scale’ for our beneficiaries is very important to us, and we are grateful for the opportunity to do better,”
Ana Brigovic, Accelerator Manager and BizDev Executive at ACT Grupa.
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Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or Universitets- och högskolerådet. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.
Successful examples of collaboration between social and traditional enterprises in Latvia and Europe
The “Buy Social Movement” has been active for more than 10 years, indicating that businesses, governments, and consumers are increasingly seeking opportunities to purchase from or collaborate with social enterprises and companies with social or environmental goals. Through the campaign to promote good examples within the Buy Social B2B project, we aim to raise awareness of this movement and highlight various examples of social procurement across different European countries.
Read more in the article about these collaboration examples: Sonido & Rimi; 4 Vēji & Madara; EkoBag & Erste Bank Serbia; AfB & Siemens; Lumeco & PwC Netherlands; Novitas Consult & Elixir Group; Swink & Deloitte; WILDPLASTIC® & OTTO; Tarem Services Limited & Zurich.
Support Line with Double Impact | Sonido & Rimi
Sonido
Sonido is a social enterprise founded in Latvia that provides employment opportunities to people from groups at risk of social exclusion, helping them overcome barriers in the job market. The company offers various call center and virtual secretary services, including feedback hotlines, complaint handling, and customer support. Sonido launched an innovative project, the “Let’s Talk?” hotline, designed to reduce loneliness by connecting people in need of conversation with individuals with disabilities who are open to sharing their experiences.
Rimi
Rimi Latvia is one of the leading food retail companies in Latvia, with over 135 stores across the country and more than 5,000 employees.
Collaboration
Rimi Latvia collaborated with Sonido to provide emotional support to its employees. The social enterprise provided a support hotline available to all Rimi Latvia employees, offering a safe space to talk and be heard, helping to address issues early and potentially prevent the worsening of mental health concerns.
Learn more about the collaboration
Inclusive Employment for Sustainable Packaging | 4 Vēji & Madara
4 Vēji
4 Vēji is a social enterprise established in 2020 to support adults with mental health challenges. While primarily producing corrugated paper, cardboard, and cardboard packaging, 4 Vēji also creates handmade items like soaps, bracelets, and ceramics, fostering inclusive employment opportunities.
MÁDARA Cosmetics
MÁDARA is a pioneering Northern European brand renowned for its commitment to natural beauty and sustainability. The brand is COSMOS ECOCERT certified, and its packaging is fully recyclable.
Collaboration
This synergy led MÁDARA to integrate 4 Vēji into its supply chain. The partnership not only provides meaningful employment to individuals with mental disabilities but also supports MÁDARA’s mission for sustainable and socially responsible practices.
Learn more about the collaboration
Sustainable Products | EkoBag & Erste Bank Serbia
EkoBag
EkoBag is Serbia’s first “green” social enterprise, established with a strong commitment to environmental preservation. The company recycles PVC film from old billboards, a material that would otherwise take up to 1,500 years to decompose. From this recycled material, EkoBag produces a range of items, including bags, folders, holders, and wallets.
Erste Bank Serbia
Erste Bank’s corporate social responsibility (CSR) strategy prioritizes support for social entrepreneurs. It is the first bank in Serbia to introduce social banking services and has a policy of working with social enterprises for catering and corporate gifts.
Partnership
EkoBag and Erste Bank have developed a close partnership. Each year, Erste Bank purchases 150 to 300 EkoBag laptop bags, laptop backpacks, document bags, and other accessories for its employees. This collaboration reinforces both organizations’ commitment to sustainable practices and social impact by supporting green products and socially inclusive employment.
Learn more about the collaboration
Social and Sustainable IT | AfB and Siemens
Learn more about the collaboration
Environmentally Friendly Future | Lumeco and PwC Netherlands
Lumeco
Lumeco is a social enterprise that supplies and installs LED lighting solutions, revolutionizing collaboration among companies. The company’s vision and goal are to make commercial real estate more sustainable while creating social impact.
PwC Netherlands
PwC specializes in insurance, tax, and legal services, as well as consulting, while continuously striving to improve its sustainability impact across all offices and parking lots in the Netherlands.
Collaboration
The two organizations met in 2018 when PwC was looking for an opportunity to replace traditional lighting with circular LED solutions. Now, Lumeco’s innovative LED lighting solutions illuminate thirteen PwC offices across the country.
Learn more about the collaboration
Socially Responsible Gifts | Novitas Consult & Elixir Group
Novitas Consult
Novitas Consult is a social enterprise based in Serbia that provides equal opportunities for people with disabilities by integrating them into the workforce. The company’s primary business activities involve sorting, packing, and repacking various types of products.
Elixir Group
Elixir Group is a leading fertilizer manufacturer in Southeast Europe, employing over 1,900 people.
Collaboration
Novitas Consult is a well-known local company with a good reputation, making it the first choice for Elixir Group when support was needed to procure New Year’s gifts for employees’ children. The first service agreement was signed in 2014, and since then, a long-term collaboration has developed between the two organizations.
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Neurodiversity Awareness | Swink and Deloitte
Swink
Swink is a social enterprise based in the Netherlands with a clear mission to harness the unique abilities of individuals with autism in the field of digital services. By embracing neurodiversity, Swink provides its clients with unparalleled service quality and innovative solutions.
Deloitte
Deloitte is a global professional services firm specializing in audit, tax, consulting, financial advisory, and risk management services.
Collaboration
The collaboration began in early 2022 when the two organizations jointly developed a proposal that ultimately won a tender for digital and web analytics services for 75 public sector organizations in the Netherlands.
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From Waste Bag to Parcel Packaging | WILDPLASTIC® x OTTO
WILDPLASTIC®
WILDPLASTIC® is a successful social enterprise that has established the world’s first supply chain for wild film plastic (LDPE), focusing on sustainability and direct collaboration with local organizations.
OTTO
OTTO is the largest online retailer in Germany. Every second washing machine and every third television ordered online comes from OTTO.
Partnership
In mid-2020, following a successful pilot project, the partnership was officially launched, introducing the OTTOBAG—the first parcel packaging made from 80% WILDPLASTIC®. To date, OTTO uses 100% WILDPLASTIC® mailing bags for its products.
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Promoting Small Business Growth | Tarem Services Limited x Zurich
TAREM SERVICES Limited
Tarem Services Limited is a social enterprise with a significant mission: to address the issue of working poverty and create social value across the United Kingdom. Tarem is committed to raising the status of cleaners and support staff, ensuring they receive the respect and minimum wage they deserve.
Zurich
Zurich has been providing general insurance products in the United Kingdom for over 100 years and is committed to making a positive impact on lives and communities.
Collaboration
In collaboration with Global Workplace Solutions, Zurich initiated a partnership with Tarem, which now cleans seven Zurich offices across the UK. This partnership has also supported Tarem in developing the company’s performance metrics and achieving significant business growth.
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Buy Social Europe B2B is co-funded by the EU Single Market Programme and SAP, and it is implemented in collaboration with Euclid Network, Social Enterprise World Forum, Social Enterprise UK, Yunus Social Business, Social Entrepreneurship Netzwerk Deutschland (SEND), Social Enterprise NL, Reach For Change, Sustainable Procurement Pledge, Zurich Insurance, and partners from 17 countries.
HOW TO TALK ABOUT LATVIA INTERNATIONALLY?
To showcase and talk about examples of social entrepreneurship in Latvia on a broader scale, from September 24 to 26, the Social Entrepreneurship Association of Latvia (SEAL) hosted foreign guests – the WAMA COOP Association for Social Entrepreneurship from Poland and the social enterprise KNOF from Slovenia – and introduced them to various Latvian social enterprises and organizations that incorporate adult and community education, as well as green living and sustainability into their work.
The represented fields included literature, music and performing arts, environmental adaptability, startups, green lifestyle, catering and event organizing, idea workshops, education, and more. We participated in visits, engaged in practical activities, and also held discussions, exchanging experiences with each other.
We introduced the guests not only to social entrepreneurs in Riga, but also visited the city of Jelgava, which is a great example of how a growth-promoting environment is being created not only in the capital.
And now, a little more about what we experienced:
DAY 1
In the morning of the first day of visit, representatives from three countries gathered in the cozy office of the Open Society Foundation “DOTS,” where we got to know each other a bit better. We also introduced our project partners with social entrepreneurship and the field of the social economy in Latvia, as well as the various focus areas of SEAL, one of which is education of a society.
Inga Muižniece, the founder of the social enterprise “Sonido,” shared her success story. “Sonido” is a call center for people who feel lonely and want someone to talk to. As representatives from KNOF and WAMA-COOP pointed out, neither Poland nor Slovenia has a similar phone line dedicated to people, who simply want to talk and to feel heard.
After Inga’s inspiring story, it was time to stretch our legs and to physically visit other SEAL members and explore their experiences in their actual working environments.
The first in-person visit was to the SEAL member, the non-governmental organization “Apeirons,” which actively educates the public on various issues related to improving the quality of life for people with different types of disabilities. Public education takes place in many forms – through social media and influencers, interviews in traditional media, and memorable advertising campaigns. We saw several of these campaigns in the “Apeirons” office and learned the stories behind their creation. “Apeirons” has also developed an innovative service called “Sensory Lunch,” where participants, during the meal, learn several sign language signs, gain insight into Braille, and learn about environmental accessibility.
After a lunch at the social enterprise café “Boršč in Old Town of Riga/Delicious with Ukrainian women”, which provides employment opportunities for people from Ukraine, we headed to the museum of SEAL member, the social enterprise “Invisible World.” This enterprise educates the public about vision impairments through an interactive experience. In the “Invisible World” museum, visitors, guided by a blind guide, walk through completely dark rooms and try to complete various tasks related to touch and movement. At the end of the activity, visitors have a chance to ask the blind guide various questions to better understand the daily life of a visually impaired person and the barriers they face every day.
DAY 2
On the second day of the visit, we traveled to Jelgava City, where we met the people making a difference in the city and its surrounding areas.
The day began musically with a visit to the social enterprise “BJMK Rock School” the only accredited music school offering a professional music education program in “Rock Music.” Here, not only children and young people, but also adults can fulfill their dream of learning rock music by playing rock instruments and mastering vocal skills. We saw this firsthand when one of the school’s teachers greeted us with a song and a virtuosic guitar performance.
By organizing various events, the rock school also contributes to the city’s cultural and community life, providing its students a platform to showcase their talent to a wider audience.
The city of Jelgava is actively creating an environment where social entrepreneurship and various citizen initiatives can thrive. One of the key contributors to this effort is “KOPRADE,” a special space for young people established by the Zemgale Business Center. Young people aged 13 to 25 from the Zemgale region come together here to enhance their entrepreneurial skills. The Zemgale Planning Region (ZPR) promotes not only traditional entrepreneurship, but also supports social entrepreneurs and creators of social innovation. SEAL collaborates with ZPR to promote social entrepreneurship and innovation in this region.
The Zemgale Regional Competence Development Center (ZRKAC) provides lifelong learning opportunities tailored to the needs of the Zemgale region’s residents, considering the wishes and needs of every individual. The center embraces various innovative methods and organizes a grant competition for social entrepreneurs called “Impulse.”
On the way back to Riga, we stopped by the social enterprise “Branku Brančotava,” a catering and event venue. It was established by the association “Tuvu,” which helps families in Latvia who are in need and lonely individuals. The organization also works with young people by organizing camps and events. Thanks to the profits from the charity shop “Tuvu” and the cultural venue “Branku Brančotava,” various charity projects are carried out.
DAY 3
The visit to the second-hand clothing and goods store “Otrā Elpa” (Second Breath) was a fantastic opportunity to purchase beautiful and practical souvenirs as mementos of the trip. The company’s team introduced the guests to ways of caring for the environment by applying business methods. This meeting was especially valuable for the Slovenian company KNOF, as they, like “Otrā Elpa,” specialize in the reuse and resale of clothing and furniture. Both companies shared their experiences and exchanged ideas.
From saving the planet, we moved to literature. The social enterprise “Ziedoņa klase” (Ziedonis Class) introduced the Polish and Slovenian guests to Latvia’s outstanding poet and thinker Imants Ziedonis. The organization focuses heavily on educating and inspiring teachers, because only inspired and happy teachers can make their students feel the same way. They also offer activities for children – classes can sign up for a team-building game in a closed room inspired by Imants Ziedonis’ works, where students solve various puzzles.
The day continued in an artistic atmosphere as we arrived at the creative spaces of the social enterprise “Zvaigznājs,” where young performing artists express themselves musically and creatively using modern sound and visual techniques. The studio was created by the well-known Latvian singer Agnese Rakovska, who represented Latvia in the 2017 Eurovision Song Contest.
“Viskaļi” also offers workspace for creative and positively “crazy” people who want to develop their ideas, projects, or businesses while looking for a vibrant community to grow in. The large and empty former building of the Riga Technical University was given to the social enterprise “Free Riga,” which renamed the space “Viskaļi.” They’ve also been granted two other buildings in Riga, where new tenants are breathing life into these spaces.
At “Viskaļi,” the foreign guests, shared impressions, discoveries, and feelings from the past few days.
Here are a few quotes from the them:
“A great opportunity to meet like-minded people with similar life paths and challenges. After participating in such an event, I no longer feel so alone in my work. I feel positively ‘recharged.’”
“The visit program was very rich. I liked that we had the opportunity to meet representatives from various fields.”
“Great experience! I gained new ideas on how I can help develop new initiatives in NGOs in Poland.”
We extend our thanks to our members and social entrepreneurship support organizations that opened their doors to our guests and shared their stories: Sonido; Apeirons; NeredzamaPasaule.lv; BJMK; Zemgale Planning Region;, Zemgale Regional Competence Development Center; Branku Brančotava; Otrā Elpa; Ziedoņa klase; Zvaigznājs and Viskaļi.
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The trip took place as part of the project “Think globally, act locally – international partnership for effective social entrepreneurship education,” co-funded by the European Union’s Erasmus+ program.
