Much like a USDA Organic stamp, which regulates farming and handling, the Social Enterprise Mark is a UK-based certification that consumers can look to and trust.
The Mark works both ways: social enterprises and social businesses benefit because they are seen as more reputable and consumers can look to the Mark to choose which services and purchases they favor in their communities.
"Social enterprises have to prove they are genuine against a set of qualification criteria, which is overseen by an independent Certification Panel to ensure fairness and consistency," the organization writes on their website. "Any changes to the qualification criteria are overseen by the Board of the Company."
Integrity, inspiration and interaction -- all equally important when it comes to business principles -- are three key tenets of Social Enterprise Mark's mission.
Contact Information
Social Enterprise Mark website
Social Enterprise Mark on Facebook
Social Enterprise Mark on Twitter
Social Enterprise Mark on YouTube
Purpose-Driven Certification Authorities
The Social Enterprise Mark Gives Businesses Criteria
Trend Themes
1. Consumer Trust Certification - The Social Enterprise Mark certification provides consumers with a trusted stamp of approval, similar to USDA Organic, ensuring that businesses meet certain criteria and are reputable.
2. Social Enterprise Reputation - Social enterprises and social businesses benefit from the certification as it enhances their reputation, making them more desirable to consumers and communities.
3. Importance of Business Principles - The Social Enterprise Mark emphasizes the importance of integrity, inspiration, and interaction as key tenets of successful business principles.
Industry Implications
1. Certification Services - Certification authorities like the Social Enterprise Mark can disrupt the market by creating standardized criteria for businesses looking to showcase their social impact and gain consumer trust.
2. Social Enterprise - The certification is specifically designed for social enterprises, providing them with a unique selling point and differentiating them from traditional businesses.
3. Community-based Business - The Social Enterprise Mark certification helps businesses connect with and support their local communities, creating opportunities for disruptive innovation at the intersection of commerce and social impact.