What Is Employment Social Enterprise?

Employment social enterprises, often called ESE’s, are mission driven businesses that provide paid work, job training, and supportive services to people facing barriers to employment, such as homelessness, incarceration, or substance use recovery.

Unlike traditional job programs, ESEs operate real businesses that generate revenue while creating meaningful employment opportunities.

ESE’s have many different legal structures and business models, but they generally all include:

  • Paid, transitional or supportive employment

  • Real businesses selling real products or services

  • Integrated coaching and support

  • Focus on long term stability and career growth

Every person who an E.S.E. supports into a longterm job has a $100,000+ impact on the community

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Every person who an E.S.E. supports into a longterm job has a $100,000+ impact on the community .....

The Denver Scene

Denver is home to more than 35 employment social enterprises in a range of business models in every part of the metro area.

Many have retail and service offerings available to the public, meaning your next meal, coffee or haircut could support a healthier city.

ESE Directory
2025 Impact Report

Employment Social Enterprise is an incredibly efficient model. According to national data from REDF:

E.S.E.’s Produce a $2.23 Social Return on Investment (SROI) for every dollar invested.