Social Enterprise Census 2024

02/09/2025

The Social Enterprise Census is part of a 10-year commitment by the Scottish Government to track the development of the sector. This fourth and final census confirms what communities in the Highlands and Islands have long known: social enterprises are a driving force for Scotland’s inclusive economy, creating jobs, supporting communities, and generating lasting economic and social value.

Key findings for the Highlands and Islands include:

• There are 1,274 social enterprises are based in the Highlands and Islands - maintaining a strong presence in rural and island communities 
• These employ 7,295 full-time equivalent employees (up from 7,228 in 2021)
• The net worth of our regions social enterprises is £745 million (up from £677 million in 2021)
• 92% of our social enterprises now pay the Real Living Wage – surpassing the national average of 88%
  

Read the full report on the Social Enterprise Census website

Find out more about how we support social enterprises

The Social Enterprise in Scotland: Census 2024 has been co-ordinated by Diffley Partnership with support from a project steering group and funding from the Scottish Government.