John Swinney was speaking at the Social Enterprise Summit Scotland 2024. 

Scotland’s First Minister has reiterated his support of and the critical role of the social enterprise sector. 

John Swinney outlined his vision for Scotland’s wellbeing economy in a speech and Q&A session at the Social Enterprise Summit Scotland 2024, held at the Surgeon’s Quarter, Quincentenary Conference Centre in Edinburgh. 

This year’s summit, themed “Catalyst for Change: Social Enterprise Driving a Wellbeing Economy,” gathered over 200 social entrepreneurs, policymakers, and advocates dedicated to building a fairer, more sustainable future.

In his address, the First Minister underscored the critical role of social enterprises in Scotland’s journey toward a wellbeing economy. 

He detailed how the government’s four core priorities—eradicating child poverty, economic growth, bolstering public services, and tackling climate change—are inherently aligned with the social enterprise sector’s values, emphasising the sector’s unique potential to address pressing issues and foster greater equality across Scotland’s entrepreneurial landscape.

First Minister John Swinney said “Social enterprises are the vital threads that run through our economy and communities. I know from many years of experience that our social enterprises are full of entrepreneurial ideas and are bringing positive changes to the communities we live and work in.

“My Government’s four key priorities – eradicating child poverty, growing the economy, supporting public services and tackling climate change – already align with the values and work of the sector. Delivering those priorities will not be the work of Government alone, which is why I am always eager to hear what social enterprise partners have achieved.

“The past seven years have been very difficult for so many people. They have felt like a long, dark economic winter, but, as First Minister, I want to start preparing the ground for spring. I believe an era of economic renewal is required, and I know social enterprises will be at the heart of building a wellbeing economy that works for everyone in Scotland.”

The Social Enterprise Summit Scotland 2024 reinforced the potential of social enterprises to drive genuine change and deliver an economy that puts people and planet first.

The Summit also featured Tom Arthur, Minister for Employment and Investment, who delivered a keynote address on the role of social enterprises contribution towards Community Wealth Building. 

Mr. Arthur referenced the National Strategy for Economic Transformation, affirming the government’s commitment to expanding Scotland’s social enterprise sector.

Highlights of the day included a social enterprise showcase featuring Tayside Upcycling and Craft Centre, Studio Lutalica, The Usual Place, Universal Truth, and Community Enterprise. Karis Gill from Social Stories Club also provided insights into the sector’s influence.

Chris Martin, CEO of Social Enterprise Scotland, echoed the First Minister’s sentiment. 

He added: “By placing people and planet at the heart of their models, social enterprises are leading the way toward a future where economic progress supports more inclusive communities for all. 

“Social enterprises are uniquely positioned to drive the social and environmental changes crucial for a wellbeing economy, and we’re delighted to have the First Minister’s support.”