Events / SEWF Policy Forum
SEWF Policy Forum programme
Developing better economic policies: Recognising the strengths of rural and diverse communities
With 3.4 billion people living in rural areas, rural economic development is a critical priority for local, national and international governments alike. Rural social enterprises, deeply embedded within their communities, are essential in tackling the challenges these areas face, such as limited access to services, economic opportunities and infrastructure.
The principles of rural policy co-creation can apply in any sector where policy interventions need to recognise local needs and involve community stakeholders. Join this session to explore how policymakers around the world can harness the potential of social enterprises to accelerate sustainable and enterprising communities.
đź“ŤThis session marks the launch of the Rural Social Enterprise Manifesto!
Engaging the next generation as agents of positive change
Young people are critical to the sustainability of the communities they live in, especially rural communities. ​Join this session to discuss how policymakers can engage ​young people in decision-making and empower them to become ​active participants in shaping their future.
Democratising access to technology
With digitalisation driving the economy, access to technology is a prerequisite ​for sustainable development in rural communities and marginalised groups. Join this session to discuss how policymakers and communities can collaborate to ensure rural ​enterprises can participate and thrive in the digital economy.
Utilising networks and business support agencies to build trust and generate policy outcomes
Rural social enterprise networks are self-organising to influence local policy on a global scale. Join this session to discuss how policymakers can engage with networks and business support agencies to build strong, resilient communities.
Networking
Meet other participants from around the world with 1-1 speed networking.
Global perspectives: Comparing social enterprise strategies across continents
Exploring the need for legal and fiscal structures that support protection of purpose and acknowledgement of impact
Institutional frameworks influence a social enterprise’s ability to make an impact. Join this session to discuss what legal and fiscal structures best support social enterprises.
Policy accelerators: Merits of dedicated social enterprise policy over inclusion in general business policy
Advocating for policy change: Lessons shared
Networking
Meet other participants from around the world with 1-1 speed networking.
Social enterprise: Understanding the importance of boundaries, standards and identity for policy development and implementation
Collective action for supportive policy and transformative movements
The strength of the social enterprise movement stems from bottom-up engagement and collaboration across communities that are building more equitable and inclusive economies, regardless of terminology used. Join this session to learn from ecosystem innovators leveraging the collective power of networks to influence policy at all levels of government.
Standards and governance and their importance for procurement
Join this session to discuss the importance of standards and identity for government and business procurement. The breakout will engage networks and policymakers to identify priorities and actions that are relevant in the Americas, but applicable globally.
Around the world, policymakers are crafting policy resolutions, procurement regulations, tax incentives and investment programmes to support the social economy. In doing so, for the first time, they have a clear set of standards that define social enterprises and a global verification scheme that supports this identity.
Join this session for an open and candid discussion among policymakers, social enterprise networks and business leaders from around the globe. Explore how these decision-makers engage with the social economy, the impact economy and social enterprises that put people and planet first in their business structure and operations.