As the countdown begins to next year's Kent and Medway Business Summit, one topic on the agenda is set to be social enterprise. But, for many, the bigger question is what exactly is it?

Rebecca Smith is deputy CEO of Social Enterprise Kent (SEK). She explains: "While the strict definition of social enterprise is an organisation which trades for a social or environmental purpose, it can be many different things. It’s a business that bridges the gap between charity and profit.

"As a social enterprise there’s the chance to make money, but it’s what you do with it that makes a difference.

"Within Kent you’ll pretty much see a social enterprise for everything. We work closely with many organisations to assist and support, and we have also been involved from the ground up, helping many to start and launch. These companies are competing with private sector organisations for business, but the added social value is now seen as incredibly important."

Organisations like the RBLI (Royal British Legion Industries) has set up the likes of Britain’s Bravest Manufacturing Company, staffed by ex-Army and service personnel who make signs for roads. Food based ventures like Lily’s Social Kitchen in Canterbury provide vital work experience to those with learning difficulties, while food clubs like Our Kitchen in Thanet provides a viable alternative to food banks.

NBE Fitness that provides accessible fitness activities in Thanet, and event venues such as Westgate Hall are all social enterprises.

Statistics say social enterprises contribute £60billion to the nation's economy and employ two million people.

Rebecca says she detects a "sea change" in for-profits wanting to do good things for their communities.

She says: "Doing something selfless can really pay off. With social media and news that spreads fast, offering added value to society or the local community is a great way of gaining exposure. Take a local corner shop who started to offer community initiatives during the pandemic such as delivering packages to shielding families.

"Of course, people appreciated them for what they were doing, but there is no doubt it would improve their brand too by getting their name out there and associated with good causes.”

And the job opportunities for those wanting to make a positive difference pay dividends.

She adds: "There is a tight labour market currently, and young people, the workforce of the future, have the power to be more discriminating about where they work.

"Generally, social enterprises offer more flexibility and are more diverse – 47% are led by women, 31% are led by people from a black, Asian, and minority ethnic background. Furthermore, 72% are living wage employers. For young people, it’s often more than just earning their wage, it’s about making a difference to their community."

Rebecca Smith will be a headline panellist during the skills debate at the Kent and Medway Business Summit which takes place at the University of Kent in Canterbury on January 13.

For details on how to attend the annual summit - with early bird discounted tickets available now - click here.