Businesses with a Difference

Market-based social economy firms such as social enterprises, social purpose businesses, co-operatives, credit unions, and community economic development corporations aim to meet distinct social needs while making a profit. Do these types of businesses have the potential for growth in today's economy? Are they destined to function only in areas where conventional firms cannot achieve a sufficient rate of return? Or will the role of social economy organizations change as businesses begin placing more emphasis on corporate social responsibility?

Building on their popular 2010 collection Researching the Social Economy, editors Laurie Mook, Jack Quarter, and Sherida Ryan bring together contributors with diverse backgrounds to explore the challenges and opportunities faced by firms that seek a genuine balance between their social and economic objectives. Through international research, case studies, and comparative analyses, this innovative collection highlights the unique issues that must be addressed when businesses are accountable not only to their investors and shareholders, but also to their clients, workers, local communities, and the broader society.

LAURIE MOOK is an assistant professor in the School of Community Resources and Development at Arizona State University.

JACK QUARTER is a professor and co-director of the Social Economy Centre at the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education, University of Toronto.

SHERIDA RYAN is the co-ordinator of the Community University Research Alliance on Social Business for Marginalized Business Groups at the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education, University of Toronto.