Social Enterprise Group Forum: “The Strength to Persevere”
New Taipei City Mayor Chu Liluan attended the Third Annual Social Enterprise Group Forum — “The Strength to Persevere” today (3/22); the event took place at the multi-purpose hall of the third of floor of city hall. During his speech, the mayor said that the function of the social enterprise is to take the spirit of enterprises and social responsibility to enable the younger generation “start-up with love and change society.” To further this cause, the New Taipei City Government is planning to construct more entrepreneurial workspaces for those looking to create innovation and start new businesses. Through this type of projects, the city government aims to make New Taipei City the innovation capital of Taiwan.
Mayor Chu said that this year's forum has the theme “The Strength to Persevere,” similar to the Wanjing Marathon that took place this morning that saw 12,000 competitors persevere through the race. The Wanjing Marathon is Taiwan’s first competition certified by the International Olympic Committee. This marathon was part of the city government’s continual effort to try to globalize the city; this is also the strength to persevere.
The mayor said that the idea of the social enterprise is to combine the spirit of enterprises with social responsibility and change the past capitalistic ideals of profit-driven enterprises. To be a social enterprise means to take up responsibilities towards society, environment, the world, and the future sustainability of the human race.
Mayor Chu said that in the past the city was more concerned with economic challenges and consequently neglected social justice. To address this, New Taipei City is pushing for more people to join cause of social enterprise. The city government is also planning Innovation Shops at MRT’s Sanchong Station and Taipei Bridge Station to provide creative spaces, attract more local talents join the New Taipei family, make the city the innovation capital of the Nation, and extend the city’s influence towards the world.
The Labor Affairs Department reports that the aim of the Social Enterprise Group is to assist enterprises (including private enterprises and nonprofits) to strengthen their innovation capability and social welfare responsibility. Using the concept of “Enterprise models for solving social problems,” the group provides a multimedia platform and forum for discussion, promotes social enterprise ideals, and accelerates the exchange of experiences between domestic and international enterprises. The past two forums were held in New Taipei City, and this year, the third annual forum, the group continues its collaboration with New Taipei City. This forum invited 30 domestic and international social entrepreneurs to share with the attendees their experience and fruits of their labor.
For more information: Labor Affairs Department, Xia Lexiang, Tel: 1999 or (02)2960-3456 ext 6487.