Mayor supports new enterprise vision for the region

Date published: 16 November 2018


Mayor of Greater Manchester Andy Burnham has supported a new vision for social enterprise in the region, at the Greater Manchester Social Enterprise Summit.

The new vision for social enterprise, developed by the Greater Manchester Social Enterprise Network (GMSEN), in consultation with partners in the public, private and voluntary sectors, aims to continue this tradition by enabling the right conditions for social enterprises to succeed.

Reflecting on Brexit during his speech at yesterday’s (Thursday) event, Mr Burnham said: “It is important that we stick together in uncertain times.

"We know where we're going, let us get on with it.

“There is a massive opportunity for social enterprise in Greater Manchester.

"We are the historic home of social enterprise, and we need to make it right for the 21st century.

"The best organisations want to be based in places with a purpose, so that's something we need to be communicating to the next generation. 

“We don't talk about social enterprise enough but it is of the moment - business being run the right way and giving back to the community.

"Part of Greater Manchester’s industrial strategy has to be a people strategy, that has a productive economy where the workforce is well looked after.”

Launched at St. Peter’s House in Manchester - Social Enterprise Day - the aim of The Greater Manchester social enterprise vision is to create a new wave of ethical and socially responsible business across Greater Manchester, that will result in a more inclusive, diverse and vibrant economy across the region.

It marks the start of a process of engagement and discussion around the actions needed to deliver the vision, such as addressing limited access to financial and business support and a lack of awareness and visibility of social enterprise.

“I am absolutely confident that the best days of Greater Manchester lie ahead of us," Mr Burnham added.

“In the next 10 years, a lot of positive change is going to happen.

"That will be by people taking positive inspiration from what is happening around them rather than direction from Westminster."

The Summit, attended by over 150 organisations and 200 people, explored the key role of social enterprise in creating a thriving, inclusive economy in all parts of Greater Manchester, with panel discussions and workshops on topics such as digital innovation and social value.


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