Today we mark Social Enterprise Day, a national celebration recognising the organisations using business as a force for good. Social enterprises play a vital role in West Lothian, creating jobs, supporting communities and reinvesting their income to drive meaningful change.
What Is a Social Enterprise?
A social enterprise is a business that trades to achieve a social or environmental purpose. Unlike traditional businesses that prioritise profit for shareholders, social enterprises reinvest their earnings back into their mission.
They operate independently, generating most of their income through the sale of goods or services and follow clear rules on how profits are reinvested. Social enterprises can take many forms, including:
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Community Interest Companies (CICs)
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Charities with trading arms
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Community Benefit Societies
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Credit Unions
Across Scotland, more than 6,000 social enterprises contribute £2.3 billion to the economy and support over 88,000 jobs.
How We Support Social Enterprises
At Voluntary Sector Gateway West Lothian, we work alongside a range of specialist support agencies to provide a one-stop shop for social enterprise enquiries. Our support includes:
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Guidance on the core principles of social enterprise
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Help choosing the right legal structure
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Advice on setting up, trading and operating
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Feasibility discussions to explore if social enterprise is the right model
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Support with planning for sustainability, good governance and long-term impact
We also:
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Share funding opportunities, news and sector updates
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Host networking events designed specifically for social enterprises
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Support Local Authority, NHS procurement and community benefit conversations
Social Enterprise Forum
We proudly host the Social Enterprise Forum, a regular networking space for West Lothian social enterprises to connect, collaborate and learn from one another.
Meetings are held every 6–8 weeks, rotating between The Gateway and member venues, and feature peer discussion, guest speakers and practical learning.
If you would like to join the Forum or find out more, please visit the dedicated page on our site.
Need Support? We’re Here to Help
Whether you’re exploring a new idea, growing an existing enterprise or facing challenges, support is available.
Request a call back: socialenterprises@vsgwl.org
Crisis recovery, practical business support, social investment, legal advice, marketing and more are available via the Social Enterprise section on our website.
Social enterprises strengthen our communities and contribute to a fairer, more resilient West Lothian. Today, we celebrate your impact and your commitment to doing business with purpose.
