Module Directory

This module provides an overview of the broader ecosystem in which social economy (SE) enterprises operate. It examines the enablers and barriers that shape their development and explores the processes and practices that support their long-term sustainability.

The module is structured in two main parts. The first focuses on the internal ecosystem of SE enterprises, covering key aspects such as leadership, organisational structure, and decision-making processes. A deep understanding of internal dynamics and the mechanisms that enable SE organisations to thrive is essential for their long-term viability.

The second part examines the external ecosystem, highlighting the fact that SE organisations do not operate in isolation but are embedded within specific geographical contexts. Local conditions significantly influence their nature, operations, and potential for success. The module explores the diverse support structures available to SE enterprises, which are shaped at multiple levels—from local neighbourhoods to the international arena. These structures take various forms, including tangible assets such as infrastructure, financial instruments, and geographical advantages, as well as intangible factors such as institutional frameworks and local traditions. Understanding these external influences is crucial for fostering a thriving social economy.

The aims of this module are:

• To introduce students to the key characteristics of a social economy enterprise and their internal environment.


• To familiarise students to the broad constellation of factors that may determine the environment in which social economy organisations emerge and thrive or perish.


• students to the broad constellation of factors that may determine the environment in which social economy organizations emerge and thrive or perish.


• To provide students with an understanding of the multiple levels and layers of Social Economy as well as the multiple factors that either foster or hinder its development in particular contexts.


• To enable students to develop their skills and knowledge to successfully manage a Social Economy Enterprise and understand the complexities of the wider ecosystem.

By the end of this module, students will be expected to be able to:

1. Demonstrate a broad understanding of social economy enterprises, including their key characteristics, internal structures, and organisational dynamics.


2. Critically assess the support structures that enable social economy enterprises to thrive, considering both tangible and intangible factors across different geographical and institutional contexts.


3. Evaluate the interconnections between organisational structures, policies, and broader socio-economic frameworks, recognising social economy enterprises as dynamic and evolving systems.


4. Apply theoretical and analytical frameworks to assess social economy practices, using real-world examples to identify strengths, limitations, and areas for potential transformation.


5. Explore the practical implications of social economy principles, considering how knowledge can be applied to influence policy, organisational strategies, and the development of innovative, inclusive economic models.

Syllabus information

• Introduction to Social Economy Enterprises


• Exploring Organisational Designs for Social Enterprises


• Social Enterprises and Participatory Leadership


• Social Enterprises and Team building


• Social Enterprises and Decision-Making Processes


• Introduction to Social Economy ecosystem


• Top-Down support mechanisms


• Bottom-Up support mechanisms


• Local Conditions and National Infrastructures: Barriers and Potentialities


• Connecting internal and external ecosystems

This module will be delivered via:

• One 2-hour lecture per week

Students are expected to undertake the reading before classes and be prepared to engage in discussion.