The social economy is changing. Initiatives that focus on social value are springing up everywhere, from cooperative entrepreneurship to inclusive workplaces. But if we really want to make a difference, we need more than just good examples. It is time to join forces and work on a joint agenda.

During the Global Forum for Social and Solidarity Economy (GSEF) in Bordeaux, 60 Dutch participants came together – from entrepreneurs to civil servants, from experts to scientists. De Omslag co-organised a sub-session in which we actively linked practice, policy and knowledge. Exactly what is needed to continue building.

From movement to agenda

The social economy is alive and well. But without a solid foundation, initiatives remain vulnerable. That is why we are working on an Impact Agenda 2030 for the social and solidarity economy (SSE) in the Netherlands. This agenda brings together energy and direction, based on everything that was shared in Bordeaux: practical stories, dilemmas, insights and ambitions.

It is time not only to celebrate the social economy, but also to make it structurally possible.

Three clear calls:
1. To the national government: The train is leaving. Get on board. Take responsibility. There is room for a national strategy in which policy, financing and regulation support the social economy.
2. To the European Commission: Make social value visible and measurable. Ensure that the SSE becomes a structural part of economic policy.
3. To ourselves: Keep building. Locally, regionally, nationally. Connect practices, strengthen networks and work together. In solidarity and with a focus on the future.

Time for solidarity

The conference showed that now is the time. The energy is there. The knowledge is there. The practice is there. Now is the time for recognition, space and structural support.

For us, solidarity means ownership by the people concerned, control over what is needed, and cooperation based on equality.

De Omslag remains committed to an economy of meaning. An economy in which solidarity is the foundation.

This trip was organised by Amsterdam Impact, Social Enterprise NL, Stichting De Omslag and Meetellen.
With support from City Deal Impact Entrepreneurship, Rabobank Foundation, Stichting DOEN, the Municipality of Rotterdam, the Province of North Brabant, DIGIT-ABLE and WAAG Futurelab, and all participants.