At Social Traders, we envisage a thriving social enterprise sector that fosters a more inclusive and equitable Australia. Our mission is to integrate social enterprises deeply into business and government supply chains, creating lasting change.

With the incredible support of the Brian M. Davis Charitable Foundation, we proudly running the 2024 Grow Program—a transformative initiative designed to help youth-focused certified social enterprises flourish.

Over the next three years, the Grow Program will empower 30 certified social enterprises by providing them with essential tools and connections to grow sustainably, adapt to market conditions, and maximise social procurement opportunities.

Meet the 2024 Grow Program cohort

We’re excited to introduce the 9 remarkable certified social enterprises making up this year’s Grow Program cohort:

Recycle 4 Change

Recycle4Change operates the Victorian State Government’s Container Deposit Scheme (CDS) from Geelong to Laverton North. They offer a holistic employment and training program that helps participants regain self-worth, reconnect with family, and reintegrate into society. Their pathways include opportunities for those exiting the justice system, struggling to find work, young adults, and mothers returning to the workforce.

Youth Enterprise Australia (YEA)

YEA mobilises untapped early career talent by partnering with businesses and public sector entities. Their 6-month employment and training program helps young people transition to long-term employment while achieving workforce capacity and ESG/Social Procurement objectives.

HoMie

HoMie, a Melbourne-based streetwear label, dedicates 100% of its profits to supporting young people affected by homelessness or hardship. Their HoMie Pathway Alliance offers accredited retail education and employment for ages 18-25, while HoMie’s VIP Days provide free clothing, haircuts, beauty services, personal care packs, and lunch with the team.

YLab

YLab specialises in co-design, strategy, and creative services, working with clients to improve services, policies, and products for young people. Their project-based approach drives real change across employment, health, education, and First Nations sectors.

The Little Social

The Little Social, powered by Youth Projects, operates cafés in Melbourne that empower young people through hands-on skills development and mentoring from industry experts, helping them lead meaningful lives.

Free to Feed

Free to Feed empowers people from asylum-seeking and refugee backgrounds by providing training, employment, psycho-social support, and shared food experiences, facilitating their social and economic inclusion in Australia.

Brainwave Bikes

As Melbourne's largest second-hand bike retailer, Brainwave Bikes supports Brainwave Australia, aiding children with brain illnesses. They refurbish donated bikes to reduce landfill waste, offer affordable bikes, and provide work experience for young people with disabilities. All proceeds support families in need.

Social Engine

Social Engine transforms the lives of vulnerable young people with practical employment experience, paid work, and ongoing support. They focus on industries like hospitality, warehousing, and logistics, reinvesting all profits to create jobs and provide continuous support, prioritising purpose over profit.

Spworx

Partnering with Street Peace, Spworx offers mentoring and job opportunities to at-risk youth on the Mornington Peninsula, helping them reintegrate into the workforce and gain a sense of dignity, purpose, and belonging.

Opportunities for growth

We’re thrilled to offer participants a range of exciting opportunities, including:

Connecting with peers: Participants will network with other inspiring youth-focused social enterprises, share ideas, overcome challenges, and celebrate successes together.

Expert guidance: Industry experts will offer tailored support to help these enterprises refine their operations, boost their business strategies, and supercharge their impact.

Unlocking social procurement: Participants will gain valuable insights into the social procurement industry and learn how to tap into business and government supply chains to grow sustainably.

Building connections: Through the program, social enterprises will connect with our network of business and government members, unlocking new procurement partnerships and growth opportunities.

A special thanks to our supporters

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our supporters who are making the Grow Program possible. A big thank you to Brandkind, Social Scaffolding, Edify Connect, and STREAT for sharing their expertise recently. By collaborating, we’re helping these social enterprises grow and continue to create positive social impact in their communities.