News

On September 6th this year, an event organized by the Latvian Social Entrepreneurship Association took place at the Āgenskalns Market premises, bringing together representatives of 15 Latvian social enterprises and 15 large commercial companies. The main objective of the event was to foster cooperation between businesses to develop a social impact business model and establish sustainable partnerships. 

Participants, including social enterprises offering a wide range of goods and services—from corporate gifts to catering, event planning, and informational campaigns—actively shared ideas and sought collaboration opportunities. Commercial enterprises showed interest in the opportunities presented by social enterprises, particularly emphasizing the importance of work integration.

It has already been reported that Ltd “ZAAO”, in cooperation with the Ministry of Climate and Energy and 21 partners, is implementing the European Union’s LIFE program integrated project No. LIFE20 IPE/LV/000014 “Waste To Resources Latvia – boosting regional sustainability and circularity” through the Implementation of Waste as Resources Concept” (LIFE Waste To Resources IP).

The project's aim is to promote the introduction of a circular economy in Latvia, particularly in the waste management sector, creating a system where waste is regarded as valuable resources. One of the main activities of Ltd “ZAAO” is the initiative to establish the Vidzeme Regional Circular Economy Center in Valmiera, dedicated to promoting repair and recycling. The center will offer solutions for the reuse and repair of goods.

Ltd “ZAAO” particularly emphasizes the importance of social entrepreneurship in the circular economy, planning to:

·       Promote work integration by providing job opportunities for socially vulnerable groups, allowing them to actively participate in circular economy processes, for example, by learning skills related to returning goods to society for reuse.

·       Develop the reuse and repair of goods by collaborating with social enterprises that provide repair and reuse services.

·       Engage the public by organizing educational activities to raise awareness about the benefits of the circular economy.

During the event, representatives of social and commercial enterprises met to get to know each other, engage in face-to-face discussions, and understand each other's offerings and needs, laying the foundation for future socially responsible initiatives. The need for closer collaboration between social and large enterprises to create a sustainable and responsible business environment in Latvia was emphasized. The Latvian Social Entrepreneurship Association and its partners will continue to promote this initiative, fostering societal well-being and environmental sustainability.