Successful social enterprise is an effective way for community-based organizations to become more self-sustaining by generating income through the sale of services and/or products in the marketplace, particularly as increasing numbers of organizations compete for shrinking dollars in the form of donations and grants. Finally, self-reliance through social enterprise presents these organizations with freedom and control to fulfill their mission and mandates, and reduces time spent fundraising and reporting to funders.

There is a need for organizations / businesses to assist those who are typically excluded from economic and civic participation to acquire necessary skills and job experience to become contributing and included members of the community. Examples of marginalized / excluded individuals include youth-at-risk, new immigrants, those with disabilities, and transitioning inmates. Social enterprise is an effective way to provide an opportunity to overcome the obstacles of the marginalized in becoming meaningfully employed.