Chantier de l’économie sociale

Background

The Chantier de l’économie sociale coordinates a network of cooperatives, non-profits, community economic development organizations, and social movements that focus on job creation and other benefits to the community in addition to generating revenue. An internationally recognized leader in developing financial instruments and practical supports for the social economy, the Chantier provides members with flexible loans and training, and builds partnerships with the financial sector and government on behalf of the network.

Grant Description

In 2011, the Chantier de l’économie sociale developed Commerce Solidaire, an innovative online platform that allows social enterprises to conduct group purchases from local providers, and link their products and services with government purchasing departments.

A grant from the Foundation will support the first phase of this project and the launch of the second phase. The grant will allow Commerce Solidaire to respond to large-volume purchasing requests and provide training and support to social enterprises and their networks in using Commerce Solidaire tools. In addition, to strengthen similar efforts across the country, a portion of the grant will be used to convene other organizations that are developing responsible purchasing platforms to share experiences and lessons.

Visit www.commercesolidaire.com for more information.

Visit www.chantier.qc.ca for more information.