BUSINESS MODELS IN THE SOCIAL ECONOMY – REVIEW OF SUCCESSFUL PRACTICES

Abstract

The social economy is a phenomenon that is gaining ever more significant dimensions, mainly because of its added value, which goes beyond measurable economic indicators. The role of enterprises operating in the social economy is also highly appreciated by the European Commission, which calculates their contribution to the European economy by more than 10% of its total. Because of the specificity and lack of specific legal rules, businesses use different business models to carry out their activities. The purpose of this study is to identify, define and evaluate the most commonly used business models of enterprises operating in the social economy, the so called third sector, analysing successful business practices. Using appropriate examples, including from Bulgaria, will be highlighted problematic issues for the functioning of social enterprises and some basic guidelines will be proposed to facilitate business operations in the social economy.

Keywords

• social entrepreneurship
• solidarity economy
• third sector