Preliminary Profile of the Size and Scope of the Social Economy in Alberta and British Columbia

Abstract

Using existing data, mainly of a statistical nature, this report provides a preliminary profile of the social economy and social economy organizations in the two Canadian provinces of Alberta and British Columbia. Aggregate data and descriptive information was used to construct this profile according to six areas: 1. Non-profit and Voluntary Organizations 2. Size and Scope of Co-operative Businesses 3. Infrastructure Supporting the Social Economy 4. Non-Market Housing 5. Social Enterprises: Purpose, Scope and Supports 6. Community-Based Social Services The report also includes a discussion of trends, patterns and issues found in the context of understanding the size and scope of the Social Economy.