Social Entrepreneurship Netzwerk Deutschland (SEND)

The Social Entrepreneurship Netzwerk Deutschland (SEND) is a national association founded in 2017 to represent the interests of social enterprises across Germany. The organisation emerged from a working group on social entrepreneurship initiated in December 2016 under the Bundesverband Deutsche Startups e.V. Following a successful crowdfunding campaign, SEND was formally established in Berlin, where it remains based at the Haus der Bundespressekonferenz. SEND’s primary role is to advocate for improved political and financial frameworks for social enterprises—all with the goal of enabling systemic social innovation. The organisation connects more than 700 members throughout Germany, including early-stage and established social entrepreneurs, funding entities, and a network of 12 supporting organisations. It serves as an intermediary between social enterprises and policymakers, working both at federal and regional levels to develop position papers and provide policy recommendations. A notable project led by SEND is the German Social Entrepreneurship Monitor (DSEM), a biennial study that surveys hundreds of social enterprises to document sector opportunities and challenges. For example, the 2020 edition reported close to 450 participating organisations. The DSEM’s data inform national strategy on financing, legal structure, and innovation support. SEND also organises working groups and networking platforms to encourage exchange and cooperation among its members; it is involved in expert policy dialogues in 10 regional groups. Funding partners—such as foundations and companies—help underpin SEND’s lobbying, research, and sector-building initiatives. The organisation’s scope covers advocacy, knowledge-building, and network facilitation rather than direct investment or incubation.