Cambridge Handbook of Social Enterprise Law

The Cambridge Handbook of Social Enterprise Law provides an authoritative guide to social enterprise law and policy, covering topics such as legal structures, financing, and social impact. It is a valuable resource for entrepreneurs, investors, practitioners, academics, and students interested in how companies are evolving to address new demands for capitalism with a conscience.

Format: Hardback
Length: 462 pages
Publication date: 03 January 2019
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

The demand for companies to prioritize sustainability, fair wages, and fair trade is on the rise, with an increasing number of employees, consumers, and investors seeking ethical and socially responsible business practices. These stakeholders are willing to accept lower economic returns in exchange for supporting companies that align with their values. Unlike charities or non-profit organizations, social enterprises are not only permitted but also expected to generate an economic return for their investors. However, unlike traditional business ventures, social enterprises are not driven solely by the pursuit of profit maximization. Instead, they are driven by a mission to create positive social and environmental impact.

In this comprehensive volume, Benjamin Means and Joseph W. Yockey, two leading legal scholars and practitioners, have brought together a diverse group of experts to provide an authoritative guide to social enterprise law and policy. The Cambridge Handbook of Social Enterprise Law takes stock of the field and charts a course for its future development. This handbook is a valuable resource for entrepreneurs, investors, practitioners, academics, students, and anyone else interested in understanding how companies are evolving to meet the new demands of capitalism with a conscience.

One of the key themes explored in the handbook is the legal framework that supports social enterprises. The authors discuss the various legal structures available, including limited liability companies (LLCs), benefit corporations, and cooperatives, and their advantages and disadvantages. They also examine the legal challenges that social enterprises face, such as regulatory compliance, tax issues, and intellectual property protection.

The handbook also provides insights into the business models and strategies employed by social enterprises. The authors discuss the importance of social impact measurement and reporting, and how social enterprises can develop and implement sustainable business practices. They also explore the role of government policies and incentives in promoting social enterprise development, and the challenges and opportunities that arise from government engagement.

In addition to its legal and business aspects, the handbook also addresses the social and ethical implications of social enterprise. The authors discuss the importance of transparency, accountability, and community engagement, and how social enterprises can build trust and relationships with their stakeholders. They also explore the role of social enterprise in addressing social and economic inequality, and the potential for social enterprise to create a more just and sustainable society.

Overall, the Cambridge Handbook of Social Enterprise Law is a comprehensive and timely resource that provides valuable insights into the world of social enterprise. It is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding how companies can create positive social and environmental impact while generating economic returns for their investors. By exploring the legal, business, and social aspects of social enterprise, this handbook contributes to the ongoing dialogue and development of this emerging field.

Weight: 990g
Dimension: 262 x 185 x 30 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781107186552