Who are we?

This group covers the ‘social economy’ and the ‘proximity economy’ sectors. The ‘social economy’ encompasses a variety of businesses, organisations and legal forms, including non-profit associations, cooperatives, mutual societies, foundations and social enterprises. They share the objective of systematically putting people first and producing a positive impact on local communities. The ‘proximity economy’ includes services and businesses fostering local and short value chains for mainly local production and consumption. Proximity businesses include local SMEs operating personal and contact services, small shops, bars and restaurants, repair, cleaning and maintenance services, etc.