Research Projects

DTES Social Enterprise Impact Report

Status: Completed

Project Lead: Voor Urban Labs

Voor Urban Labs researched the community economic impact of the social enterprise sector in Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside in 2019 and 2020. The research study included a survey, and produced data and analysis for Buy Social Canada, with financial support from the City of Vancouver. For 20 years, social enterprises in Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside have created employment opportunities for thousands of residents, ensured access to affordable goods and services for community residents, and generated millions of dollars in economic activity.

Voor Urban Labs was excited to amplify the economic power of residents and community-serving businesses. The social enterprise sector in the area features 88 businesses in a range of sectors from sanitation, food services, and retail creating hope and autonomy for residents every day.