The Ministry of Welfare has concluded Social Entrepreneurship Week, whose central event – the conference “Social Entrepreneurship in Latvia – Growth, Creativity, Cooperation” – brought together nearly 100 participants in person. The event gathered social entrepreneurs, policy makers, and representatives of municipalities and non-governmental organisations to discuss key issues in the sector’s development, opportunities for cooperation, and creative approaches to addressing societal needs.
Together with experts, participants discussed the impact of social entrepreneurship on society, the role of national and municipal support mechanisms, as well as the importance of innovation and entrepreneurial creativity in creating sustainable solutions. The event confirmed that social entrepreneurship in Latvia is dynamic, socially relevant, and rooted in collaboration.
“Social entrepreneurship is no longer a niche area – it is becoming a model for the economy of the future, helping to address social challenges, promote employment, and strengthen social cohesion,” said Minister for Welfare Reinis Uzulnieks. “This year, 277 social enterprises are operating in Latvia, and the number continues to grow. However, creating social impact involves a much broader circle – associations, foundations, municipalities, and active citizens. Together, we are building a social economy ecosystem based on creativity, determination, and, above all, passion.”
The conference also presented an analytical overview – a portrait of social enterprises in Latvia – showing that social entrepreneurship is becoming increasingly creative and innovative, offering real solutions to social challenges. It is a call to see that social enterprises are not only about helping others, but also about development, bold ideas, and a positive impact on our shared future.
Throughout the week, participants were introduced to several Latvian social enterprises that vividly demonstrate how creativity and entrepreneurship can serve as powerful tools for improving community well-being. Experience stories were shared by Dekolserviss, EVO Group, Vilbers, Veizāna Deju Skola, Zvaigznāja komanda, BenefitPro, Sajūtu Māja, CareLat, Dabas Saldumu Maģija, 4 vēji, Kukaramba, Health Tactics and Mobilizing. Each of these enterprises, through its unique approach, demonstrated that social entrepreneurship in Latvia is diverse, creative, and socially significant. Their stories inspire and show how innovation, empathy, and purposeful work can bring positive change across fields – from education and healthcare to culture and inclusive employment.
Social Entrepreneurship Week also included practical workshops and an event for young people. The workshops provided opportunities to learn the basics of digital marketing and improve public speaking and persuasion skills. Meanwhile, the youth event explored how to turn a business idea into a socially meaningful initiative.
In total, around 170 participants from all over Latvia took part in the week’s events – the conference, practical workshops, and youth activities. The aim of Social Entrepreneurship Week was to strengthen understanding of the importance and potential of social entrepreneurship while fostering dialogue between entrepreneurs, public authorities, and society as a whole.
The events of Social Entrepreneurship Week were organised with the financial support of the European Social Fund Plus project “Support for Social Entrepreneurship.”
