What are reasonable profitability targets for a social enterprise start-up with a mission to create employment for disadvantaged populations? How does external financing play a role in the execution of the social mission and how does a social mission as a key part of the business model impact the ability to reach profitability targets? SCP showcases one of our early investments and highlights key learnings about the inherent mission tensions in these business models.
“We knew that in order to understand the “blended value” (social and financial) of these kinds of investments, we would need a different kind of measurement tool to help us and our portfolio organizations understand their unique value creation – a Social Return on Investment.”
Share with a friend
Related reading
Hype or help? Can crypto and stablecoins solve economic inequality?
Some cryptocurrency advocates are promoting the use of stablecoins as a common currency, arguing that this new currency could help the cost-of-living crisis and promote economic equality – particularly for young people. Law professor, money expert and SCP Fellow Dan Rohde is not convinced that crypto can help address economic inequality. In this explainer, he breaks down what stablecoins are and aren’t, and how to think critically about their promises.
Building a thriving economy: CSA Policy Pathways Conference
The CSA Policy Pathways Conference convenes leaders, thinkers and changemakers across government, business, community and academia to confront the pressing questions shaping our economic future. How can we build resilience in the face of global uncertainty? What will it take to unlock innovation and ensure its benefits are broadly shared? How do we design policies that promote competition, inclusion, and financial security? Join us on November 5, 2025, in Toronto, as we explore how we can take bolder steps toward a more resilient, innovative and equitable economic future.
Budget 2025 should bolster employee ownership to strengthen Canada’s economy | Canadian Dimension
Budget 2025 offers Canada a chance to make employee ownership permanent by extending tax incentives for employee ownership trusts (EOTs) and worker co-ops. In Canadian Dimension, Simon Pek, Lorin Busaan and Alex Hemingway write that doing so would boost productivity, reduce inequality and secure business succession, while keeping jobs and decision-making local. A modest investment promises significant economic and social dividends.