The Social Economy FORUM is a knowledge exchange network for and to, directly benefit social economy organisations. 

Through The Social Economy FORUM discussion themes which are sector-led, we explore a diverse range of ‘enterprise and economy essentials’ such as business growth opportunities in the region, access to procurement sites, social trading platforms, consortium building, partnership working, social finance and investment, mergers and acquisitions, and developing your growth plans. A panel of experts lead with insights followed by an open discussion and problem solving. Session reports are fed directly back to WMCA to inform the West Midlands social economy growth strategy, input to social economy action plans and understand the direct impact for social businesses across the region. The legacy piece will be a WMCA Forum for VCSE’s across the region.

Diverse and inclusive, The Social Economy FORUM is open to B2B or B2C social businesses, community businesses, co-operatives, employee-owned businesses, minority ethnic-led businesses, charities, social enterprises and CIC’s, faith-based organisations, social enterprise or social economy organisations, and enterprises with clear social and/or environmental purpose within the West Midlands Combined Authority localities of Birmingham, Coventry, Dudley, Sandwell, Solihull, Walsall and Wolverhampton.

Click here to register for the forum, to receive updates and invitations. Upcoming events include:

FORUM 11: Social Investment | Wednesday 5th February 2025, 11am to 12.30pm (in-person, Walsall)

FORUM 12: Sustainable Social Value | Tuesday 11th March 2025, 11am to 12.30pm (in-person, Coventry & Warwickshire CDA, Coventry CV6 5NX)