Unpacking the Social Economy

Join this exciting ‘local to global’ conversation with Co-operative Bonds, exploring how people are building businesses and initiatives that put community empowerment, people and the planet first.

This webinar introduces the Social and Solidarity Economy (SSE) - a globally recognised approach to economic development that centres community ownership, democratic governance, social purpose, and environmental care.

In many parts of the world, SSE enterprises - including co-operatives, mutuals, and community-led initiatives - have helped communities build stronger local economies, create good jobs, and retain wealth in their regions. While SSE is less well known in Australia (even in the co-operative movement itself), there’s growing interest in how these models can help us address complex challenges like inequality, housing, care, and regional disadvantage.

Whether you're new to the concept or already working in this space, this session will help unpack what the SSE is, why it matters, and how it can work in an Australian context. It will explore:

What is the Social and Solidarity Economy (SSE)?
How can we support community-owned, inclusive business models?
What lessons can Australia learn from global practice?

This session is for anyone interested in:

Social enterprise and impact-led business.
Community-led development.
Inclusive economic models.
Co-operatives, mutuals and shared ownership.
Exploring new ideas for building stronger local economies.

Music by: Fratres – Arvo Part and First Flight – Kaitlyn Aurelia Smith