Social enterprises have both a social and/or environmental mission as well a financial sustainability mission. They seek to achieve a balance between making a profit and creating positive social and/or environmental outcomes.

They often employ innovative approaches to tackle social challenges, whether it's providing job training for disadvantaged populations, offering eco-friendly products, or delivering essential services to underserved communities.

While profit is not the sole focus, social enterprises aim to generate revenue to sustain their operations and invest in their social or environmental goals. Any profits earned are typically reinvested in the organization or used to further its mission.

Social enterprises are committed to measuring and tracking the impact of their activities. They use metrics and indicators to assess their effectiveness in achieving their social or environmental objectives.

Social enterprises often prioritize ethical business practices, including fair wages, sustainable sourcing, and transparent operations.

They actively engage with and involve the communities they serve, as well as other stakeholders such as customers, investors, and partners, in decision-making processes.