Social Traders has been certifying social enterprises for over five years. The certification framework is world-leading, backed by international research and co-designed with the sector itself, Minter Ellison and EY. Our certification process continually evolves based on sector needs and is governed by an independent and international advisory group.

The certification framework covers all social enterprise models, legal structures, and developmental stages including start-ups. We're always improving the framework to make sure it’s inclusive and accessible for all social enterprise types and is rigorous so that it protects the sector from the reputational risk of social washing.

Our latest review looked specifically at accessibility of the certification framework and processes for Indigenous social enterprises.

Why we did the review

The review was prompted by a report by First Australians Capital after the Social Enterprise World Forum (2022) in Meanjin/Brisbane, highlighting issues facing Indigenous social enterprises within the broader sector.

We conducted the review out of respect for First Nations people. We recognise that many Indigenous businesses have been operating as social enterprises for many years, and acknowledge that an Indigenous perspective on our framework and process would provide unique value in ensuring the framework continues to meet the needs of the sector.

What we looked at in the review

We wanted to better understand the drivers for social enterprise certification for our existing certified Indigenous social enterprises and the level of value these enterprises were seeing from certification. Importantly, we also wanted to identify and resolve any barriers that Indigenous social enterprises faced when applying for certification.

Social Traders sought proposals to lead the review from two Indigenous consultancy companies, with the project awarded to Gaala Watson. The project involved a review of the information and guides we use to communicate our certification framework and processes, as well as discussions with Indigenous social enterprises (both certified and non-certified) and other Indigenous businesses.

What the review found and the changes we’re making

The review helped us identify a range of changes to improve the accessibility of certification for Indigenous social enterprises as well as clarify our processes and value proposition for all social enterprises.

View the full report and recommendations

As a first step we are actioning the following:

1. Publish our Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP):

Social Traders has published a comprehensive Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP). The RAP outlines our strategies for promoting reconciliation, fostering meaningful relationships, and creating opportunities for First Nation businesses.

2. Update our certification guide:

To enhance transparency and accessibility, we are updating our certification guide. This update aims to improve the clarity about the certification process and value proposition, making it easier for businesses, including those owned by First Nations people, to understand and engage with the certification framework.

3. Special offer for Indigenous businesses:

To further support Indigenous social enterprises and acknowledge those already certified as an Indigenous business from Kinaway or Supply Nation, Social Traders is introducing a special offer to waive the certification fee until June 30th.

What’s next?

Over the next few months we’ll be exploring other recommendations from the review as part of our continuous improvements to certification.

Get in touch if you have questions

If you have any questions about the review, or if you’re an Indigenous social enterprise and would like to provide comments or feedback, we’d love to hear from you at: certification@socialtraders.com.au