Social Innovation in Action 2025

Looking ahead In this report, we recognize that the people- and planet-centred models developed by social entrepreneurs and innovators serve as a blueprint for a better world. They have demonstrated that more equitable and sustainable approaches can work for all and that these can form a significant part of the critical pathways towards an inclusive transition. Over these past few decades, social innovation has moved from the margins towards the mainstream. Our latest report, “The State of Social Enterprise 2024,” documents the existence of 10 million social enterprises across the world, generating around $2 trillion in revenue each year and creating nearly 200 million jobs. There is also growing evidence that they bridge the gender gap, with one in two social enterprises worldwide led by women. We also see social entrepreneurs and innovators serving as lighthouse examples of approaches to key issues of our time – in driving climate adaptation, in advancing all forms of equity in society and the economy, and in the positive use of AI for impact, all highlighted in our recent reports. social entrepreneurs and innovators are also leading a shift to leave behind top-down and single organizational approaches, creating platforms that mobilize key actors and empower citizens and local groups with agency and decision-making powers to effect their own change. The time has now passed when social entrepreneurs and innovators worked in isolation to fill the gaps in markets and the public sector. It is clear that no one organization or individual can achieve significant social change alone. For some time now, social entrepreneurs and innovators have been building collective efforts to achieve inclusive, lasting and equitable social change. That is why the Schwab Foundation recognizes systemic approaches in all its awardees, and also recognizes the work of organizations coming together to address complex problems and common goals through collective action. It is crucial right now that the conditions for encouraging social innovation through people- and planet-centred business models start to improve, with greater recognition and investment. Many social entrepreneurs and innovators now demonstrate a strong willingness and need to partner with business and government to scale their impact and shift systems. We will continue our efforts in building platforms for them to engage with private- and public-sector leadership through the Corporate Leadership Council and Policy Leadership Council, hosted by the Schwab Foundation. Emboldened by the momentum and increased engagement, we will continue to advance the priorities that enable the work of social innovators, along with our private and public sectors partners, will continue to advance the priorities that enable the work of social entrepreneurs and innovators. Alongside the World Economic Forum, we recognize that our platform presents a valuable opportunity to promote the adoption, mainstreaming and integration of proven social innovations into larger systems. We are committed to working towards equitable societies on a sustainable planet, and we invite you to join us in this shared future.Credit: Fred Hersch / Google HealthFrançois Bonnici Director, Schwab Foundation for Social Entrepreneurship; Head of Foundations, World Economic Forum The state of social enterprise 2024 10 million $2 trillion 200 million social enterprises globally, united by the principle of putting purpose before profit. in annual revenue generated by social enterprises each year while creating positive impact. jobs created by social enterprises across various sectors, from agriculture to financial services. Schwab Foundation 2025 Awardees and Impact Report 31