The social economy is at a pivotal moment in Europe. Since the adoption of the European Social Economy Action Plan (SEAP) in 2021, intermediary organisations, incubators, and national associations have been working tirelessly to support social entrepreneurs in their efforts to build fairer, more sustainable communities. Now, at the mid-point of SEAP’s implementation, the context in which social enterprises operate has shifted dramatically—politically, technologically, and financially. This is why the ongoing review of SEAP is crucial: to ensure its ambition and relevance through 2030 and beyond.
One of the most notable initiatives launched under SEAP has been the Youth Entrepreneurship Policy Academy (YEPA), an OECD–DG EMPL collaboration aimed at strengthening youth entrepreneurship across the EU. As young people are central to the future of the social economy, YEPA has played an important role in addressing barriers and highlighting opportunities. But what has it achieved so far—and what must come next?
YEPA’s Contributions and Limitations
YEPA has provided valuable insights into youth entrepreneurship, particularly by building on the Missing Entrepreneurs Reports and spotlighting inclusive approaches. It has documented barriers young people face, shared examples of successful initiatives, and encouraged governments to exchange best practices. This knowledge-sharing has laid a strong foundation for policy development.
However, YEPA’s focus has not always aligned tightly with social entrepreneurship, sometimes leaving a gap between its findings and the ambitions of SEAP. Much of its attention has also been directed toward youth in higher education, overlooking those outside traditional educational pathways. A more inclusive approach would better reflect the diversity of Europe’s young people and the complex realities of social entrepreneurship.
Unlocking the Potential of Youth Social Entrepreneurship
The OECD’s 2022 report Unlocking the Potential of Youth-Led Social Enterprises highlighted barriers that remain unresolved today: limited access to finance, lack of tailored support, and persistent inequalities. YEPA’s legacy should lie not just in analysis but in concrete action—providing a roadmap of best practices, measurable outcomes, and strategies that empower young entrepreneurs across all backgrounds.
Crucially, the mid-term review of SEAP is a chance to embed YEPA’s lessons into long-term strategy. This includes:
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Broadening access: Supporting young people to become entrepreneurs regardless of educational status, while addressing intersecting barriers such as socio-economic background, migration experience, or disability.
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Strengthening networks: Providing funding to European-level organisations that can convene stakeholders, share expertise, and cascade support to national intermediaries.
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Innovating finance: Commissioning research on new financing mechanisms tailored to young social entrepreneurs who face acute challenges accessing capital.
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Extending inclusivity: Considering YEPA-style initiatives for other groups—such as senior (“silver”) entrepreneurs, migrants, or those without higher education experience.
The Road Ahead
YEPA’s formal project phase may be ending, but its real value will be judged by how its learnings shape future policies and support systems. If its recommendations are acted upon, YEPA could become a cornerstone in the evolution of SEAP, ensuring that young social entrepreneurs have the tools and opportunities they need to thrive.
As Europe works toward a stronger social economy by 2030, empowering youth is not optional—it is essential. The mid-term review of SEAP is the moment to translate YEPA’s insights into sustainable, inclusive action that secures the future of social entrepreneurship for generations to come.
