You’ve got an idea that could make a real difference — maybe it’s a community garden, a support group, a creative workshop, or a service for people who often get overlooked.
But now you’re asking: Should I start a charity? Go self-employed? Set up a CIC?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer — but here’s why starting a social enterprise might be the right move for you.
What Is a Social Enterprise?
A social enterprise is a business that exists to do good.
It earns income through trading (just like any business), but instead of profits going to shareholders, they’re reinvested into a social or environmental mission.
Think of it as a middle ground between a charity and a traditional business — values-led, community-focused, and built for impact as well as income.
5 Reasons to Start a Social Enterprise
1. You Want to Solve a Problem, Not Just Talk About It
If you see a gap – whether it’s in mental health support, creative education, or accessible services – a social enterprise lets you step in and do something practical.
It’s about taking action and creating solutions in your own way.
2. You Want to Earn a Living While Making a Difference
Many founders of social enterprises are people with lived experience of the issue they’re tackling. And they deserve to be paid for their time and energy.
A social enterprise can provide you with a sustainable income and deliver real community value. You don’t have to choose between purpose and pay.
3. You Want More Flexibility Than a Charity Structure Allows
Charities can be powerful — but they come with strict rules around trustees, governance, and funding.
A CIC (Community Interest Company), which is a common type of social enterprise, offers more freedom:
You can pay yourself a fair wage.
You don’t need a full board of trustees.
You can make decisions more quickly.
4. You Want to Trade, Not Just Fundraise
If you’re delivering workshops, making products, or offering services, you can charge for that work — and use the income to grow your impact.
That means:
Less reliance on short-term grants
More control over your sustainability
A clearer path to scale
5. You Want to Build Something That Lasts
Whether you’re starting from your kitchen table or your local community centre, a social enterprise can grow into a legacy — something that creates opportunities, uplifts others, and shifts the system.
You don’t need to wait for permission. You can start now.
Is a Social Enterprise Right for You?
Ask yourself:
Do I want to earn income through trading?
Am I driven by a social mission, not personal profit?
Would I reinvest profits into the community or cause?
Am I looking for more flexibility than a charity model offers?
If the answer is yes, you might be a social entrepreneur already — you just haven’t called yourself one yet.
Need Help Getting Started?
At Accounting for Good CIC, our Learning for Good programme supports people who are starting, growing, or developing social enterprises — especially those who’ve experienced barriers to traditional business support.
Whether you're exploring legal structures, writing your first business plan, or just working out where to begin, Learning for Good is here to help.
Join one of our workshops
Download our free starter guide
Book a place on a group coaching session
You don’t need a business degree — just an idea, a bit of courage, and the right support.
Let’s build something good, together.