Social Economy

The companies or entities that are part of the social economy integrate social and economic aspects in their operation. They pursue a social purpose shared by different citizens. Several groups are involved in the decision-making, they establish limits to the distribution of profits or assets, their governance is inclusive, and their economic activity is continuous. There is organizational autonomy, a significant level of risk, it generates a minimum of employment, and they are oriented towards the market.

The types of legal entities used by social economy organizations in Catalonia are: cooperatives, mutuals, labour societies (SL), foundations and associations, employment insertion companies, special work centres, fishers’ and farmers’ associations.

In Catalonia, the social economy is articulated through the Associació Economia Social Catalunya (AESCAT), which is a non-profit, fourth-level organization that brings together the main platforms representing the different social economy families in Catalonia. The Confederation of Cooperatives of Catalunya are founding members and has had the presidency of the organization since its creation in 2017.