Canada’s social enterprise sector is a vital engine driving inclusive growth, innovation, and community resilience across every province and territory. The full Built for Impact, Ready for Market report launches soon, and presents the first national snapshot of the sector in a decade with data from 347 organizations representing 404 social enterprises.

The full report goes beyond surface-level statistics to uncover the dynamic realities of social enterprise in Canada. It offers an analysis of the three primary growth constraints: market access, capacity building, and finance, and illustrates innovative solutions through case studies ranging from CleanStart Property Services' franchising expansion to CSCNL's social acquisition model. The report also provides recommendations for government, funders, and market actors to unlock support and opportunity for the sector.

See a snapshot of key data below. The full version of the report will be available on this webpage soon.

Social enterprise is Canada’s engine for inclusive growth

Canadian Social Enterprise Sector Survey Snapshot 2026

$6.5 Billion+

$250.5 Million+

62%

Gross revenue in 2025

Employee wages paid in 2025

Say financial health is breaking even or better

18,718+

Employees

5,688+

Employees facing barriers to traditional employment

$5.3 Million+

57%

Dollars spent on wraparound supports

Intentionally provide wraparound supports to staff

Key Barriers Faced

61%
Market Awareness

67%
Scaling and Growth

46%
Operational Systems

58%
Access to Grants

Respondents could choose multiple answers

Does not include GreenShield data

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x

x

x

x

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