The interactive event on social entrepreneurship in Europe, which took place on January 16 and 17, 2014 with Ipse in attendance, was a success: bringing together more than 2,000 participants most of whom were social entrepreneurs, this two-day event produced the “Strasbourg Declaration,” a document summarizing the outcome of discussions and calling for further action in support of social enterprises and the social economy.

Over these two days, the scores of participants reasserted the view that social enterprises, which now account for one out of every four newly created businesses, must play a bigger role in the future of Europe. Acting in the general interest, these enterprises create jobs, provide innovative products and services, and promote a more sustainable economy. Nonetheless, creating a more favorable ecosystem for these enterprises requires easier access to financing, a greater number of partnerships and better recognition from public authorities.

The European Commissioners for the Internal Market (Michel Barnier), Industry and Entrepreneurship (Antonio Tajani) and Social Affairs (László Andor) were questioned on these issues, as were many other European figures including Martin Schultz, President of the European Parliament.

The “Strasbourg Declaration,” which was presented to Commissioner Michel Barnier at the end of the event, calls for stronger and more committed actions at every level – European, national and local – to support the development of social enterprises. Mr. Barnier pledged that the European Commission would study these proposals and put forward the idea of holding such events regularly. He also praised the “co-construction of public policy” initiative, organized online as well as on site, and which inspired this declaration.

The Declaration of Strasbourg is available for download at the following address: http://ec.europa.eu/internal_market/conferences/2014/0116-social-entrepreneurs/index_fr.htm