The scale and impact of Northern Ireland's social enterprise sector have been detailed in a new report launched today by Economy Minister, Dr Caoimhe Archibald.

The findings indicate that the sector contributes an estimated £933 million in turnover to the region's economy and supports over 17,000 jobs, distributed across all areas of the North, with a notable presence in the most deprived communities. Minister Archibald unveiled the '2025 Northern Ireland Social Enterprise Sector Report' during a visit to Loaf Pottery in Crawfordsburn, a social enterprise operated by the NOW Group. Loaf Pottery is dedicated to supporting individuals with learning difficulties, autism, and neurodiverse conditions into sustainable employment. The Minister commented: "This report provides the most comprehensive picture to date of the region's social enterprises. It clearly outlines the community, social and economic impact of this sector. These organisations are not only delivering essential services but are also helping to build a more inclusive, sustainable and regionally balanced economy." She added that Loaf Pottery exemplifies this impact, having transformed a disused site into an inclusive community hub offering workshops, artisan food, and employment opportunities.

Commissioned by the Department for the Economy (DfE), the report gathered up-to-date information on the sector, providing comparisons with other jurisdictions and offering insights to inform future policy and support. The research identifies a mature and resilient sector, with more than half (53%) of surveyed social enterprises having traded for over a decade. The sector primarily focuses on supporting community activity, vulnerable people, health and wellbeing initiatives, and job creation. The report also includes several recommendations to facilitate further growth.

The Minister reaffirmed her commitment to bolstering the sector: "I am committed to supporting and strengthening the ongoing impact and sustainability of social enterprises. Findings show the positive growth taking place, whilst highlighting where more can be done to further enhance the sector." She concluded that the DfE's Social Enterprise Action Plan, which already addresses areas highlighted in the report, will continue to support the sector in reaching its full potential.