In the social economy, scaling does not simply mean organisational growth. It refers to increasing social impact whether by reaching more people, replicating solutions, building partnerships, or influencing systems. This guide helps support organisations understand these pathways and design programmes that effectively enable social enterprises to grow their impact.

Practical insights and tools to support scaling

The guide offers hands-on guidance for organisations looking to strengthen their support for scaling social enterprises. Drawing on interviews, surveys, and real-world experience, it explores:

• What scaling means in the social and solidarity economy

• Different strategies to scale social impact

• The key stages of the scaling journey

• Common risks and challenges

• How to design effective scaling support programmes

It also features case studies and insights from leading organisations across Europe, including Ashoka, FASE, Social Innovation Factory, Impact Shakers, Reach for Change, ScaleChanger and others.

These examples highlight how combining funding, expertise, networks, and tailored support can significantly increase the chances of successful scaling.

Addressing a critical gap in the social innovation ecosystem

Across Europe, social enterprises are tackling pressing challenges from improving access to education and healthcare to advancing climate solutions and social inclusion. However, many struggle to scale their impact. Common barriers include limited access to long-term funding, lack of resources and specialised expertise, and difficulties adapting solutions to new contexts or markets. As a result, even proven innovations often remain local.

Support organisations play a key role in overcoming these challenges. By providing strategic guidance, facilitating partnerships, and offering tailored programmes, they act as catalysts that help social innovations grow and reach more communities.

Part of the Scaling Catalyst initiative

The guide is one of the key outputs of the Scaling Catalyst project, a two-year initiative funded by the European Union and running from September 2024 to August 2026.

The project aims to strengthen the capacity of support organisations across Europe so they can better assist social enterprises in scaling their solutions. It is implemented by Reach for Change, ACT GRUPA, GROUPE SOS Pulse, the Social Entrepreneurship Association of Latvia (SEAL), and ScaleChanger, with Euclid Network as an associated partner.

To support the launch of the guide, a series of three webinars for support organisations will be organised, where participants will gain deeper insights into the guide, explore key concepts, and learn from practical examples. The sessions will also provide space for discussion and exchange with practitioners. To apply and find out more, follow the information shared on the project webpage and our social media channels.