Berlin is doubling down on its support for social enterprises, businesses that blend profit with a commitment to social and environmental good. A new study, commissioned by the Senatsverwaltung für Wirtschaft, Energie und Betriebe (Berlin’s Senate Department for Economics, Energy and Enterprises), provides the most comprehensive data to date on the size, structure, and potential of these organizations within the German capital. The findings aim to better target support and foster a more inclusive, innovative, and sustainable economy in the city, which is already considered a hub for social entrepreneurship.
For years, Berlin has recognized the growing importance of the “social economy” – a sector encompassing organizations prioritizing social and ecological goals over pure profit. This new research, conducted by Marion Rädler of Syspons GmbH, Prof. Dr. Yasmin Olteanu of the Berliner Hochschule für Technik (Berlin University of Technology), and Dr. Philipp Kenel of the Alice Salomon Hochschule Berlin, seeks to move beyond anecdotal evidence and provide a solid foundation for policy and investment. The study’s release comes as the sector gains increasing attention, fueled by milestones like the 2021 EU Action Plan for the Social Economy and the 2023 adoption of both the National Strategy for Social Innovation and the UN Resolution Promoting the social and solidarity economy for sustainable development.
Understanding Berlin’s Social Enterprises
The study delves into the diverse landscape of social enterprises in Berlin, examining their various legal structures, industries, and economic contributions. While the exact definition of a “social enterprise” can be fluid, the research team focused on organizations that demonstrably prioritize social impact. A key finding, according to preliminary reports, is that the EU definition for Social Enterprises doesn’t always neatly apply in practice, with many organizations operating according to social entrepreneurship principles without formally meeting the criteria.
The Senatsverwaltung für Wirtschaft, Energie und Betriebe initiated a comprehensive potential analysis in July 2025 to gain a clearer picture of the sector. The research involved around 35 interviews with key stakeholders and a broad online survey that garnered over 280 responses – a strong indication of the community’s engagement and the relevance of the topic. The sample included organizations of varying sizes, ages, and legal forms, with nearly half holding non-profit status.
Key Findings and Future Implications
The research is expected to provide valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities facing social enterprises in Berlin. It aims to identify both visible and less visible actors within the sector, and to understand the experiences and needs of both established and newly founded businesses. This information will be crucial for policymakers and administrators seeking to create a supportive environment for these organizations. The study will also help to recognize and promote the full potential of social enterprises, which offer solutions to pressing environmental and societal challenges.
The results of the comprehensive analysis will be presented on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, from 11:30 AM to 2:00 PM at the Impact Hub Berlin, Rollbergstraße 28a, 12053 Berlin. The event will be opened by Michael Biel, State Secretary in the Senatsverwaltung für Wirtschaft, Energie und Betriebe, and will provide a platform for exchange between representatives from academia, government, and the social enterprise community.
Media representatives are encouraged to attend. Registration is required by Tuesday, March 10, 2026, and can be completed through this link: https://www.berlin.de/sen/web/ueber-uns/termine/formular.1359219.php
The Senatsverwaltung für Wirtschaft, Energie und Betriebe is also focused on strengthening the self-protection of critical infrastructure, as highlighted by recent initiatives to provide legal guidance for enhanced self-reliance. More information is available on their website.
Looking ahead, the data from this study will be instrumental in shaping policies and programs designed to support the growth and impact of social enterprises in Berlin. The next step is the public presentation of the findings on March 11th, which will kick off a broader discussion about how to best leverage the potential of this dynamic sector.
What are your thoughts on the role of social enterprises in building a more sustainable future? Share your comments below and let us realize how these businesses are impacting your community.
