Blog author: Coompanion

The rapid evolution of AI tools is fundamentally reshaping the workplace, offering powerful new avenues for efficiency and impact. But how can the social economy – organisations driven by purpose over profit – effectively harness this technology

This was the core question addressed at a recent local workshop in Sweden, focusing on how social enterprises can leverage AI to streamline operations, enhance their outreach, and, ultimately, multiply their social impact.

Navigating the Digital Shift for Good

The first Swedish local workshop, under the Digital Program in Sweden, took place on August 25th at the Gothenburg School of Business, Economics and Law. Titled “How AI can strengthen social enterprises,” the session attracted a diverse group of over 30 participants, including management and employees from social enterprises, representatives from social economy enabling organisations, and civil servants.

The workshop’s focus was clear: to move beyond the hype and explore the practical, concrete applications of AI in a mission-driven context.

The day featured a collaborative approach, with participants getting hands-on with tools and discussing real-world implementation. A highlight was the involvement of the social enterprise Vägen ut! Aspektra, which provided tangible examples of how they are already integrating AI into their operations, alongside a crucial discussion on the ethical dilemmas inherent in the technology.

Key Takeaways and Participant Insights

The discussions highlighted that for social enterprises, AI is not just about cutting costs; it’s about reallocating human resources to core mission work. Automation of routine tasks means more time for personal support, deep relationship building, and innovative problem-solving—the very heart of the social economy.

The workshop made clear that the primary benefit of AI is its ability to scale impact. Participants noted, for example, that using AI for tasks like grant application drafting or simplifying internal documentation frees up valuable staff time. As one participant put it: “We can spend less time writing reports and more time with the people we’re trying to help.“

Others expressed concern about the initial investment in training and tools. Unlike larger corporations, smaller social enterprises often lack dedicated IT staff and budgets for upskilling. The feedback was a clear call to action: “We need accessible, low-cost training programs specifically designed for our sector, focusing on free or low-cost AI tools”, said one participant.”

Looking ahead: scaling the social impact

The workshop concluded that AI holds great potential for the social economy. It can be a powerful partner in strengthening organizational resilience, increasing efficiency, and broadening the reach of positive social change. However, adoption must be approached with caution, prioritizing ethical use and investing in tailored training.

The journey continues, and the focus remains on equipping social enterprises with the knowledge and tools they need to ensure that as AI reshapes the world, it does so in a way that truly serves the public good.