Business sustainability tools in SSE: Social Value

Small cooperative ventures, in other words, the actors of the social solidarity economy, have not only an economic but also a strong social dimension. However, this singularity is not taken into account by current market business tools. This three-volume practical guide, developed by Dock, an organisation that has been involved in advising and supporting social solidarity economy projects for years, addresses this need. It is a toolbox that includes forms, guides, and canvases with detailed instructions for completion and evaluation. Using simple language and making extensive use of examples, it aims at any kind of business, at ventures that are either already operating or in the planning process, and even at people entering finance, marketing, or strategy for the first time. The three volumes deal in particular with social value, economic sustainability, and strategy. 

* To view or download the volumes, click on the Series link: Business sustainability tools in SSE, at the top of the page. 

Social value in the social solidarity economy is embedded in all projects’ actions. It stems from economic activity, democratic functioning, actions in the wider community, and environmental responsibility. In this sense, it is not an autonomous sphere, a distinct field, or an action occurring outside the organisation’s purview. Therefore, this tool shows what it is that we do differently and captures the social value in its whole operation in a twofold direction: towards empowerment and emancipation but also towards the reduction of exclusion and poverty.