Work Integration Social Enterprises (WISEs) and Their Role in Just Transition through Shared Value Creation

This workshop aims to explore how Work Integration Social Enterprises (WISEs) can contribute to a Just Transition in the context of green policies and sustainability, focusing on the creation of shared value for society, the environment, and businesses. Participants will learn about strategies to support marginalized groups while promoting environmentally sustainable practices, fostering a more inclusive and equitable transition to a greener economy.

This workshop would be a follow-up of the presentation delivered at the Social Entrepreneurship Summit, on the triple positive impact of WISEs on the Just Transition. This workshop aim at integrating the research suggestions provided by the audience during the beofre-mentioned presentation in the investigation, to generate inputs for a future position and research paper planned for 2025.

Event Focus: Green Policies and Sustainability
Duration: 1.5 hours
Target Audience: European Enterprises and researchers

Objective:

This workshop aims to explore how Work Integration Social Enterprises (WISEs) can contribute to a Just Transition in the context of green policies and sustainability, focusing on the creation of shared value for society, the environment, and businesses. Participants will learn about strategies to support marginalized groups while promoting environmentally sustainable practices, fostering a more inclusive and equitable transition to a greener economy.

Workshop Agenda:

1. Introduction (10 minutes)

Welcome and objectives: A brief introduction to the topic, including the definition of Just Transition, the concept of Shared Value Creation, and the role of WISEs.

Key Points:

• Just Transition as a framework for ensuring that the shift to a green economy is fair and inclusive.
• WISEs as key actors in integrating disadvantaged individuals into the labour market while contributing to environmental sustainability.

2. Understanding WISEs and Shared Value (15 minutes)

Presentation: Explore the dual mission of WISEs economic integration and social impact. Highlight case studies where WISEs have successfully aligned their mission with green economy goals.

Key Themes:

• The role of WISEs in fostering inclusive employment for vulnerable populations.
• Shared value creation: How WISEs balance profit-making with social and environmental benefits.

Case Examples: Highlight successful WISEs in Europe that have implemented green practices (e.g., renewable energy, sustainable agriculture).

3. Group Discussion: Identifying Challenges and Opportunities (20 minutes)

Interactive Session: Participants discuss in small groups:

• Challenges WISEs face in aligning their operations with green policies.
• Opportunities for collaboration between WISEs and Enterprises in advancing sustainability and social inclusion.

Guiding Questions:

• How can WISEs contribute to a just transition in your region?
• What role can your enterprises from your research area play in partnering with WISEs?

Outcome: Participants share key takeaways and potential strategies for overcoming barriers and maximizing shared value creation.

4. Collaboration and Policy Advocacy: Engaging Stakeholders (15 minutes)

Presentation: Explore how Enterprises can collaborate with WISEs, businesses, and policymakers to advocate for supportive green policies that ensure a Just Transition.

Key Points:

• How to influence policy to provide better support for WISEs.
• Ways enterprises and research can bridge the gap between social enterprises and green initiatives.
• The role of cross-sectoral partnerships in creating a sustainable and inclusive economy.

5. Action Plan Development (20 minutes)

Interactive Workshop: Participants brainstorm and draft a preliminary Action Plan for Enterprises to support WISEs in their countries.

• Focus on aligning the goals of WISEs with broader sustainability policies.
• Participants identify key stakeholders, funding opportunities, and collaborative actions.

Outcome: Concrete ideas and plans that participants can implement within their organizations or regions.

6. Q&A and Closing Remarks (10 minutes)

• Open the floor for questions and reflections on key lessons learned.
• Final takeaways: Emphasize the importance of collaborative efforts in achieving a Just Transition and promoting shared value creation.

Expected Outcomes:

• Increased awareness of the role of WISEs in supporting a Just Transition.
• Identification of opportunities for Enterprises to support the integration of vulnerable populations into the green economy.
• Collaborative action plans that align WISEs with sustainability and shared value creation.

Materials Needed:

• Projector and screen for presentations
• Handouts summarizing key concepts (Just Transition, Shared Value Creation, examples of successful WISEs)
• Flip charts or whiteboards for group discussions and action plan development

This workshop will provide a platform for European enterprises to engage with and support WISEs in contributing to a Just Transition. It will offer insights, practical strategies, and collaborative opportunities to advance social and environmental goals through shared value creation.