Council of Australian Social Enterprise Intermediaries (CASEI)
Born out of the Social Enterprise World Forum 2022 in Brisbane, CASEI is a consortium of organisations united by a shared goal: to bolster the growth and development of social enterprises across Australia. The pressing need for a space where intermediaries could share insights, discuss common challenges, and build stronger relationships led to the formation of CASEI.
Contrary to being a peak body, CASEI aspires to amplify awareness around the crucial role of intermediaries in enhancing the capabilities of social enterprises. Its mission aligns with the broader objective of harnessing collective wisdom to identify opportunities, overcome challenges, and propel the social enterprise sector forward.
The Power of Collective Wisdom
CASEI member organisations meet stringent criteria, including their operational track record, function, offerings, and primary focus on social enterprises. This ensures that CASEI comprises experienced and committed members dedicated to advancing the social enterprise sector.
By fostering a collaborative environment, CASEI stimulates productive dialogues, fortifies relationships, and ultimately, amplifies impact. The shared intention of CASEI organisations to collaborate for the greater good of the social enterprise sector fuels this progress.
CASEI Members
The Five Stages of Social Enterprise Development
Understanding the journey of social enterprise development is essential for creating a unified approach to support these impactful ventures. A shared language that defines the distinct phases of growth helps intermediaries collaborate more effectively and tailor their support to meet the specific needs of social enterprises at each stage. This common terminology not only strengthens relationships between intermediaries, governments, and philanthropists but also empowers social entrepreneurs to assess their current stage of development and navigate the challenges that come with it.
Recognising this need, the Council of Australian Social Enterprise Intermediaries (CASEI) has created an illustrative guide aptly titled Five Stages of Social Enterprise Development, building on the work of Sefa, The Centre for Social Impact Swinburne, Westpac Foundation, and Impact Seed.
Why the Five Stages of Social Enterprise Development?
This unified framework serves a dual purpose: it not only provides a common language for intermediaries, government bodies, and philanthropy organisations supporting social enterprises, but also acts as a roadmap for social enterprises themselves. It helps them understand their current position in their growth journey, enabling them to chart out their next steps more effectively.
It's important to note that this five-stage model is not a linear nor a one-size-fits-all solution. Social enterprises may not necessarily progress through all these stages. Some might choose to stay small and local, focusing on creating deep impact within a specific community or sector.
Learn more about the Five Stages of Social Enterprise Development on the SEFA webpage, or by downloading the Five Stages of Social Enterprise Development PDF.