3 reports for ‘Enterprise Day’

On Wednesday 25 March 2026, leaders from across the private, public and social enterprise sectors came together at the Strand Palace Hotel to discuss and debate the future of social value, one year after the passing of the Procurement Act and the opportunities it presented to social enterprises. This short report summarises some of the key discussion points which emerged from the workshops, panel discussions and keynote speeches from Professor Mariana Mazzucato, Josh Babarinde MP and Deputy Mayor of London for Environment and Energy - Mete Coban. It brings together an overview of the recent changes to the procurement landscape and the opportunities they provide for VCSEs, and also looks in detail at the main challenges raised by attendees when it comes to embedding social value at the heart of public and private contracts.

The State of Social Enterprise is our flagship research into the key trends and issues affecting our business movement. Titled 'Mission Critical', the report shows a growing sector that is not only profitable and productive but truly pioneering. We estimate that there are 131,000 social enterprises across the country, representing almost one in 42 of all UK businesses – and we find they are not only helping people and planet but also boosting our economy, turning over around £78 billion and re-investing £1 billion in profit into their vital missions. Looking in depth at what it means to be a social enterprise today, overall the report shows a movement creating huge impact despite complex challenges. You can also download the executive summary containing the report's key findings and statistics using the link below:

Launched in 2016, the Buy Social Corporate Challenge was set up to encourage corporates to use their everyday procurement spend to create positive social and environmental impact. Starting with seven founding partners the programme has grown to include 30 large businesses ranging from pharmaceuticals to finance. The Year 6 Report looks back at the impact of this programme which has now seen £255 million collectively spent with social enterprise suppliers by Buy Social Corporate Challenge Partners.