Regional Stakeholders Discuss Key Developments in Leuven
On the 22nd of February 2024, regional stakeholders from Verband Region Rhein-Neckar convened to discuss key developments in the social economy sector, reviewing past initiatives and planning for future activities. The meeting addressed crucial topics that impact the growth of the social economy within the SECON regions.
Highlighting SECON Good Practices
Stakeholders received feedback on the second semester of SECON, with a focus on social economy best practices across European regions. Innovative initiatives across these regions are actively tackling social, economic, and environmental challenges. These include promoting social entrepreneurship, fostering local food chains, enhancing sustainability, and boosting civic engagement. Each region demonstrates its unique approach, with some focusing on environmental sustainability while others prioritize social inclusion and economic development.
A key takeaway was the varied legal and policy frameworks influencing how social enterprises operate and scale in different areas. Digitalisation and new financing models such as social impact bonds and crowdfunding were highlighted as promising tools driving inclusivity and sustainability.
Insights from the European Social Economy Meeting
During the meeting, participants shared impressions from the recent European Social Economy gathering. A notable call from European ministers was made to the European Commission and the Council of the European Union to prioritize the social economy in future policy agendas (2024-2029) and beyond. Recommendations include the appointment of a dedicated European Commissioner for the social economy and continued support for the EU Social Economy Action Plan.
Additionally, ministers urged European institutions to facilitate greater access to funding for social economy entities, adjust tax systems to benefit social enterprises, and modify state aid regulations to support these initiatives. The Liège Roadmap for the Social Economy in the EU outlines these objectives, with a focus on fostering international exchange, promoting gender-inclusive policies, and enhancing statistical tools to better understand the sector.
Upcoming SECON Seminar in Flemish Brabant
Looking ahead, stakeholders announced a two-day seminar in Flemish Brabant focused on addressing the financial and fiscal challenges faced by social economy enterprises. The event, set to take place on 2-3 April 2025 at the Provinciehuis in Leuven, will delve into topics such as improving access to capital, optimizing tax structures, and adapting financial regulations to support innovation and growth in the sector.
The seminar will feature thematic working groups, each tasked with providing actionable solutions that will be presented during the event.