What defines a 'social enterprise'?

A 'social enterprise' is defined by its primary aim of addressing social issues while still operating as a business. This type of organization seeks to achieve a social, cultural, or environmental mission and is designed to benefit society as a whole rather than focusing solely on profit generation.

Unlike traditional businesses that prioritize shareholders and profit maximization, social enterprises reinvest their profits to further advance their social goals. This means that their business strategies are closely aligned with making a positive impact on communities, tackling social challenges, and improving the quality of life for various groups.

Other choices represent different types of organizations or business models that do not capture the essence of a social enterprise. For instance, a business focusing solely on profits would be more aligned with conventional profit-driven businesses. Charities primarily offer support or services without the intent to run as a business enterprise. Corporations with shareholders focus on providing returns to those shareholders, which contrasts with the mission-driven nature of social enterprises.