SECON

Europe is undergoing unprecedented technological, social and economic changes, which have given rise to labour market restructuring, job insecurity, inequalities, but also opportunities and a redefinition of Europeans' individual and collective goals. The importance of the social economy for European economies in light of green transition and in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic is of paramount importance.

To this end, SECON will embark on regional and interregional learning activities, elaboration of studies and reports to advance knowledge exchange
to support the participating regions in improving the relevant policy instruments and foster an enabling environment for the social economy to grow.

The project sets the following aspirations through improved policies and project activities:
- Raise awareness and visibility of the social economy to consumers interested to buy more responsibly / locally.
- Facilitate social enterprises' access to responsible public procurement and funding instruments and opportunities to support the generation of revenues and lead to financial self-sufficiency.
- Provide business support and capacity building opportunities for social enterprises.
- Maximise the contribution of the social economy to the green and digital transitions.
- Boost regional social innovation.

It forms a strong partnership of 10 organisations to serve these objectives, including nine public authorities at the regional and local level and an experienced civil society organisation in 9 countries.