A social enterprise is typically understood to be a for-profit business or a business within a non-profit organization that has a specific social or environmental mission included in the business plan. U.S.-based Social Enterprise Alliance^l defines social enterprises as:  “Organizations that address a basic unmet need or solve a social or environmental problem through a market-driven approach.”

This definition is left intentionally vague, as it must cover a wide variety of approaches and structures. Some operate within traditional structures and follow traditional exit paths, whereas others opt for alternative structures. 

See also: 

• Balancing purpose and profit

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Footnotes:

1. Social Enterprise Alliance