Social Innovation Across the Baltic States and Sweden: Four Countries, Four Unique Approaches
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Social Innovation Across the Baltic States and Sweden: Four Countries, Four Unique Approaches

As social challenges evolve, countries across Europe are taking innovative approaches to strengthen social entrepreneurship and address community needs. Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, and Sweden demonstrate how tailored strategies can support social innovation while reflecting unique national priorities.

Estonia: A “Thin State” Model for Social Innovation

Estonia focuses on efficiency by working with local organizations and communities instead of depending on a large government system. This model, led by the Ministry of the Interior and supported by civil society advisors in each of Estonia’s 15 counties, focuses on creating policies that are co-designed with community stakeholders.The country’s decision not to strictly define social enterprises gives them the flexibility to quickly adapt to new challenges. This “thin state” model ensures that local voices play a central role in shaping policies, showing how agile collaboration can make a bigger impact.

Latvia: The Power of Regulation

In 2018, Latvia implemented the Social Enterprise Law, defining social enterprises as limited liability companies with a primary focus on social impact. Organizations that register under this framework can get tax benefits, access to public resources, and grants for employing marginalized groups. However, strict eligibility requirements ensure accountability, with enterprises required to reinvest profits and submit annual impact reports. While this regulated framework supports transparency, it also presents challenges for organizations navigating compliance. Latvia’s approach shows how balancing regulation and support can help build a strong social enterprise ecosystem.

Lithuania: Building an Emerging Ecosystem

Lithuania is gradually formalizing its social enterprise framework, positioning itself as a future leader in social innovation. Though less structured than Latvia, the country’s initiatives encourage partnerships between social enterprises and government agencies. Programs like Innovation Labs are encouraging collaboration while working to define clearer eligibility criteria for funding. Lithuania’s efforts show how creating a supportive environment for social enterprises can help them grow as new policies emerge, leading to a thriving landscape for innovation.

Sweden: Integrating Social Enterprises into Public Funding

In Sweden, social enterprises are finding new opportunities to scale through integration with public funding systems. The example of Järva Gymnasium showcases this approach. Founded by Amir Sajadi, it is a community-centered educational institution specifically designed to meet the needs of a diverse, low-income student population in Sweden. By securing government-backed funding based on enrollment, the school enjoys financial stability typically reserved for public institutions. This innovative model enables Järva Gymnasium to focus on long-term goals, demonstrating how stable public funding can empower social enterprises to achieve sustained community impact.

Key Lessons Learnt

Across these countries, certain themes emerge:

  • Collaboration Matters: Estonia’s emphasis on cross-sector partnerships demonstrates the power of pooling expertise and resources to address complex challenges.

  • Flexibility vs. Regulation: Latvia’s strict framework contrasts with Estonia’s flexible approach, showing there is no one-size-fits-all strategy for developing social innovation.

  • The Role of Public Funding: Sweden’s integration of social enterprises into government systems highlights the importance of stable financial support for long-term impact.

  • Grassroots Innovation: Localized initiatives, such as Lithuania’s Innovation Labs or Järva Gymnasium’s tailored educational model, highlight the value of addressing specific community needs.

As these countries continue to refine their approaches, they provide valuable insights for cultivating impactful social enterprises across the globe.

You can read the full Social Innovation Best Practices Report here.

The article and the report were created as part of the Integrated Baltic Ecosystem for Social Innovation (IBESI) project by Reach for Change, Baltic Innovation Agency / BIA, Katalista Ventures, Sotsiaalsete Ettevõtete Võrgustik (Social Enterprise Estonia) and funded by the European Innovation Council and SMEs Executive Agency (EISMEA).

WEBINAR: Enhancing Social Innovation and Social Entrepreneurship in the Baltic Sea Region
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WEBINAR: Enhancing Social Innovation and Social Entrepreneurship in the Baltic Sea Region

Join us for an engaging webinar exploring how technology and artificial intelligence can drive social innovation and create positive societal impacts

What to Expect:

Part 1: AI & Social Impact

– Organizational Implementation: Get a glimpse of AI for good strategies, explore impactful AI projects, and access resources tailored for non-profits and social enterprises.

– Co-Creation and Collaboration: Discover the role of co-creation in integrating AI into organizations and society.

Discussion: What problems in your organization or your community can you solve with AI?

 Part 2: Tech & AI Impact Ecosystems

– Compare traditional and emerging tech ecosystems in the EU.

– Examine Europe’s strategic role in tech-driven social innovation.

– Explore opportunities for collaboration in the EU tech ecosystem.

Discussion: What part of the European AI Ecosystem could you play?

Why Attend?

Gain insights, practical knowledge, and inspiration to engage in tech and AI initiatives for societal benefit.

Together, we can foster a collaborative and innovative ecosystem in Europe.

Our speakers: 

Tobias Oertel, Adviser AI & Digitisation, zukunft zwei Innovationsagentur; Berlin.

Marc Sunarjo, Expert Social Innovation & Social Entrepreneurship, zukunft zwei Innovationsagentur, Berlin.

Register your free spot here: https://www.eventbrite.de/e/webinar-tech-ai-for-impact-resist-tickets-1100934658199?aff=oddtdtcreator

Case studies on civil society making sustainability transitions
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Case studies on civil society making sustainability transitions

We collected a variety of inspiring success stories from six Baltic Sea region countries!

We make transition! project engages local authorities, civil society actors and businesses in co-creative processes to enhance cooperation for eco-social sustainability. One of the core aims is to improve understanding of the role and added value of active civil society for sustainability.

We collected many incredibly inspiring case studies related to social sustainability, circular economy, biodiversity, sustainable food and lifestyle from the Baltic Sea region. You can read about them in this publication:

Find the vision document here.

Case studies on civil society making sustainability transitions
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Case studies on civil society making sustainability transitions

We make transition! collected a variety of inspiring success stories of “civil society making sustainability transitions”. Case studies are related to social sustainability, circular economy, biodiversity, sustainable food and lifestyle from the Baltic Sea region. The case studies provide an outlook on the power of creative people and initiatives revealing the fundamental value of active civil society for social innovations. At the same time, the case studies show how crucial the pioneering role of civil society in enhancing sustainability can be. All case studies are widely respected examples of people who act according to their values and persistently strive for good communication and cooperation with the public sector and other stakeholders. This requires openness, listening skills and active role of the public authorities as well. Some cases have turned into business or projects from which people can make their living. This publication gathers the best examples from six Baltic Sea region countries. We hope that it raises discussion, learning and respect among transnational cooperators, national, regional and local authorities, decisionmakers, civil society & business actors and the general public.

Find inspirational cases here.

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 About the We make transition! project
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 About the We make transition! project

Local and regional authorities have a crucial role in driving resilience – societal ability to adapt and react. Due to the complexity of sustainability challenges, there is a need to mobilise all levels of society to create and implement solutions that enable systemic changes in our unsustainable practices. Civil society actors – associations, social entrepreneurs, cooperatives, communities, individuals – can have a pioneering role in enhancing ecological and social sustainability.

We make transition! project engages a great number of regional and local authorities, civil society, and other innovation actors from the Baltic Sea region. Partners from six countries cooperate with altogether 12 cities and municipalities in implementing local transition arena workshop processes including co-creation of a joint vision, pathways, concrete solutions, and initiatives that enhance the cooperation with civil society actors. The topics of the processes focus on either 1) sustainable lifestyle, 2) agriculture & food, 3) biodiversity, or 4) circular & sharing economy. The main output of the project will be a practical manual for applying the transition management approach to make strategy processes such as climate plans, roadmaps, and local strategies more interactive to involve also civil society actors.

On this platform we invite you to read and comment our publications including:

  • Case studies on civil society making sustainability transitions

  • Baltic Sea region sustainability vision and recommendations co-created by a transnational group of change agents

  • How to improve cooperation between local authorities and civil society actors? – a transnational gap analysis.

  • Manual for applying the transition arena method for inclusive governance (available later).

Publication: More about the project

BSR vision of sustainable life
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BSR vision of sustainable life

We How does sustainable future 2035 look like from the point of view of various civil society actors? We make transition! project invited a group of change agents from BSR countries to co-create an inspiring sustainability vision and recommendations on empowering the cooperation between local authorities and civil society actors to enhance ecological and social sustainability.

Publication: BSR vision of sustainable life

New educational modules for social entrepreneurs are available
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New educational modules for social entrepreneurs are available

The social economy is a business model that works for the future of Europe. Within the RevitaLESE project, we have developed several educational models to strengthen European social enterprises, offer inspiration to the next generation of social entrepreneurs and educate about the necessary steps needed to ensure a more sustainable society. 

Closing the RevitaLese project (https://revitalese.eu/), we would like to share developed training modules for the promotion of social entrepreneurship, which are available in several EU languages and video instructions for their use https://www.youtube.com/watch?v= OPkolu_KR54

A short two-year summary of the project is available here:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5hHc6MNTJwA
Share, use, and learn!

Staying Resilient: 8 Ways to Prevent Burnout Working in Social Economy

Staying Resilient: 8 Ways to Prevent Burnout Working in Social Economy

Staying resilient while working in a social enterprise requires adopting unconventional strategies to avoid burnout. While social entrepreneurs often face unique challenges that can lead to burnout, including working with limited resources, managing complex projects, and balancing multiple stakeholders, there are many ways to prevent burnout beyond taking breaks and practicing self-care. Here are eight strategies to help social entrepreneurs stay energized and motivated while making a positive social impact!

1. Connect with Nature 

Social entrepreneurs can benefit from spending time in nature, whether it’s going for a walk in the park, hiking in the mountains, or simply spending time in a garden. Research has shown that being in nature can reduce stress, improve mood, and increase creativity. By incorporating nature into their work routine, social entrepreneurs can recharge and prevent burnout. 

2. Practice Gratitude 

Cultivating a sense of gratitude can help social entrepreneurs maintain a positive mindset and avoid burnout. By taking time each day to reflect on what they are grateful for, social entrepreneurs can shift their focus from what they lack to what they have. This can help them stay motivated and energized, even during challenging times. 

3. Develop a Personalized Self-Care Plan 

Self-care is important for preventing burnout, but it’s important to tailor it to one’s individual needs and preferences. Social entrepreneurs can develop a personalized self-care plan by identifying the activities and practices that help them feel energized and relaxed. This can include things like practicing mindfulness, taking a bath, listening to music, or spending time with loved ones. By prioritizing self-care and incorporating it into their daily routine, social entrepreneurs can prevent burnout and stay resilient. 

4. Promote Mental Health Awareness 

Social entrepreneurs can prevent burnout by promoting mental health awareness within their organization and in their community. This can include organizing workshops on stress management, offering counseling services to employees, and advocating for mental health policies and resources. By prioritizing mental health, social entrepreneurs can create a supportive and inclusive work environment that promotes well-being and resilience. 

5. Cultivate Positive Relationships 

Building positive relationships with colleagues, mentors, and supporters can help social entrepreneurs prevent burnout by providing a sense of community and support. Social entrepreneurs can cultivate positive relationships by attending networking events, seeking out mentors and advisors, and participating in online communities. By connecting with others who share their passion and vision, social entrepreneurs can stay motivated and resilient.  

6. Embrace Flexibility 

Social entrepreneurs can prevent burnout by embracing flexibility in their work schedule and approach. This can include working from home, setting flexible deadlines, and adopting agile project management methodologies. By embracing flexibility, social entrepreneurs can reduce stress, increase productivity, and prevent burnout. 

7. Create Meaningful Rituals 

Creating meaningful rituals can help social entrepreneurs stay grounded and connected to their mission. This can include things like lighting a candle before starting work, taking a moment to reflect on their purpose before a meeting, or writing a daily affirmation. By creating meaningful rituals, social entrepreneurs can reinforce their values and stay motivated. 

8. Foster a Culture of Innovation 

Social entrepreneurs can prevent burnout by fostering a culture of innovation within their organization. This can include encouraging employees to experiment with new ideas, providing opportunities for professional development, and rewarding creative thinking. By promoting innovation, social entrepreneurs can stay engaged, motivated, and resilient. 

To sum up, preventing burnout is crucial for social entrepreneurs to sustain their positive impact on the world. Combining both conventional and unconventional strategies can help them stay motivated and committed to their mission. As social enterprises address vital social and environmental issues, it’s essential to prioritize our well-being to continue making a positive impact. Let’s take action and implement these strategies to ensure we can continue making a difference in the world.

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Original article available on Revitalese.eu website.

How does Social Entrepreneurship relate with Sustainable Development Goals?

How does Social Entrepreneurship relate with Sustainable Development Goals?

Social entrepreneurship is the process by which individuals, startups and entrepreneurs develop and fund solutions that directly address social issues. Organizations that are active in the social economy sector are sometimes confused with non-profit organizations, but in fact they are not profit-driven but focus on creating social or environmental changes.  

In this context, the key parameters of social entrepreneurship are social benefit, democratic and transparent governance, fair economic relations and structures, and all this, implemented with credibility, promoting social contribution and collective action. 

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), also known as the Global Goals, were adopted by the United Nations in 2015 as a universal call to action to end poverty, protect the planet, and ensure that by 2030 all people enjoy peace and prosperity. The 17 SDGs are linked – meaning that action in one area affects outcomes in others, in most practices economic development must balance social, economic and environmental sustainability.

While the SDGs are horizontal, several specific SDGs relate directly to social issues:  

  • SDG 1: Zero poverty – End all forms of poverty, everywhere. 

  • SDG 3: Good health and well-being – Ensure a life of health and well-being promote well-being for all, at all ages. 

  • SDG 4: Quality education – Ensure free, equal and equitable access to quality education for all, for all free, free and free education by promoting opportunities for lifelong learning. 

  • SDG 5: Gender equality – Achieve gender equality and gender equality and empowerment of all women and girls. 

  • SDG 10: Fewer inequalities within and between countries 

Social Economy organisations’ activities are making visible the impact of their ideas in diverse areas. Social Economy complements countries direct actions to provide quality social services in a cost-effective way. It also complements their efforts to integrate young people and disadvantaged groups into the labour market and society at large and contributes to the diversity of corporate forms, increasing citizens’ and consumers’ choices and the quality of products/services. At the same time, Social Economy’s approaches contribute to the green and digital transition by providing sustainable goods and services, bridging the digital divide and facilitating the green transition.  

These organizations contribute to the realisation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the UN at national and European level, as their activities fight poverty, lead to sustainable cities and communities, responsible production and consumption and sustainable development financing initiatives, while securing sustainable planet for generations to come.  

Original article available on Revitalese.eu website.

Header photo by Prado on Unsplash

How to write a press release to achieve social impact?

How to write a press release to achieve social impact?

A press release is an effective tool to disseminate information to the media and the public about important events, developments, and initiatives. With the right approach, a press release can be a powerful tool to achieve social impact and bring attention to critical issues. Here are some tips on how to write a press release to achieve social impact. 

First, start with a compelling headline. The headline is the first thing people will see, so it needs to grab their attention. Make sure it is clear, concise, and highlights the key message of the press release. 

Focus on the “why”. When writing a press release, it’s essential to explain why the event, initiative, or development is important. What social impact will it have? What problem is it addressing? Make sure you convey the significance of your message and the importance of your influence.

Furthermore, you should provide the context of initiative, action, or event you are writing about. Although you know everything about your topic and you think it’s easy to understand it, your potential audience’s maybe not that into it. So – don’t assume that your audience knows all the background information. Explain the problem or issue you’re addressing. Try to do it in a simple way so that everyone can understand it.

One of the important things is using quotes. Including quotes from relevant people can add credibility to your press release and help to humanize the message. Use quotes from experts, stakeholders, or people who have been directly impacted by the issue. Try to have a main character in your story. 

Also, don’t be an expert or a poet. Avoid using jargon or technical language that may be difficult for the public to understand. Avoid words that beautify the topic too. Be real in approaching your topic. Use clear, concise language that is easy to read and digest. Don’t forget to send some visuals too. Visuals such as photos or videos can help to bring your message to life and make it more engaging. Make sure you have permission to use any visuals you include. It’s also desirable that you have people on your photos and/or videos – people appreciate personification.

In conclusion, writing a press release that achieves social impact requires a clear and concise message that explains the significance of your event, initiative, or development. Including quotes, visuals, and distributing it on social media can also help to amplify your message. By following these tips, you can create a press release that has a lasting impact and raises awareness about critical social issues.

Original article available on Revitalese.eu website.

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Images by Thom Milkovic , Us Wah on Unsplash