Reports

'The State of Social Enterprise 2024', World Economic Forum

This report shows social enterprises, led 50% by women, make up 3% of global businesses, generating $2 trillion revenue and 200 million jobs across 80+ countries.

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Summary

This report provides a global overview of social enterprises, revealing that approximately 10 million social enterprises make up over 3% of all businesses worldwide. Together, they generate around $2 trillion in annual revenue and create nearly 200 million jobs. Social enterprises also bridge the gender gap, with about 50% led by women, compared to 20% in conventional businesses. Operating across diverse industries, they contribute to all UN Sustainable Development Goals, especially in health, education, climate action, and job creation.

Data is aggregated from over 80 countries, covering 83% of the global population, showing that social enterprises have a significant economic impact—larger than the global apparel industry and nearly twice that of the advertising industry.

The report underscores the vital role of social enterprises in tackling global challenges and highlights the importance of sustained data collection to fully unlock their potential.

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