For the first time in a decade, Canada is taking stock of its social enterprise sector
Buy Social Canada has launched the Canadian Social Enterprise Sector Survey: a national effort to better understand the scale, impact, challenges, and opportunities facing social enterprises across the country.
Social enterprises are businesses that sell goods or services, embed a social, cultural or environmental purpose into the business, and reinvest the majority of profits or surplus into their purpose. They operate in every region and across industries, from construction and catering to healthcare, arts, employment services, and more. Every day, they create jobs, strengthen local economies, and advance solutions to complex challenges.
Yet despite their growing presence and impact, there is limited current national data that fully reflects their economic contribution and community impact.
Why This Survey Matters
The Canadian Social Enterprise Sector Survey is led by CCEDNet member Buy Social Canada, in collaboration with sector partners, as part of its national mandate to support the sustainability and growth of the social enterprise sector across Canada.
The survey will gather insights on:
- Business models and revenue
- Social and environmental impact
- Employment and workforce
- Procurement and market access
- Access to finance
- Capacity building needs
The data collected will support evidence-based advocacy, policy guidance, and sector development across Canada. It will also establish an updated national baseline for future benchmarking and research.
Who Should Participate
Regardless of incorporation, size, or location, if you operate a social enterprise in Canada your voice belongs here.
The survey takes approximately 20 minutes to complete and is available in English and French. All respondents will be entered into a draw to win $500.
Timeline
- Survey open: February 13 – March 13, 2026
- Results shared: April 2026
By participating, you are contributing to a shared national effort to strengthen the visibility, sustainability, and long-term growth of social enterprise in Canada.
Participants and partners will be invited to review key findings once available. To stay informed, sign up for the Buy Social Canada newsletter for updates, insights, and future opportunities to engage.
Take the survey before March 13.
Together, we can build a clearer picture of the sector and a stronger foundation for what comes next.
More details can be found at socialenterprisesurvey.ca. Have questions or want to get involved? Please contact for all general and media inquiries.
