eBay to invest in small businesses that support disadvantaged communities
eBay UK has introduced a three-year multi-million pound training and finance support package for retail businesses within the social enterprise sector.
Called the ‘eBay for Change’ programme, it aims to create jobs and opportunities in marginalised and vulnerable communities that have been hardest hit socially and economically by Covid-19 by helping to grow community based businesses.
eBay has teamed up with Social Enterprise UK and the World Fairtrade Organisation on the scheme to give global shop fronts to small businesses that reinvest their profits back into their communities in the UK or abroad. As the programme builds in the coming months, up to 50 businesses will start trading on the hub with more to follow. They will all be offered a package of support that includes zero fees, one-to-one digital skills training, and marketing investment to help bring buyers to the businesses.
Chris Gale, head of social impact of eBay UK, said: “We believe that business can be a force for positive change and social enterprises are the living and breathing example of how this can be achieved. With 300,000 small businesses successful trading on eBay UK we have proven technological expertise to bring millions of shoppers to these.
“Customers are becoming increasingly aware of the impact of where they choose to spend their money- whether it’s supporting small businesses or charities. With eBay for Change, customers will receive a great product, as well as the satisfaction that the proceeds from their purchase will make a real difference and support communities.”
eBay UK is also investing in growing the social enterprise sector through a new partnership with UnLtd.
UnLtd specialises in supporting social entrepreneurs to develop their business and impact models. The partnership will be establishing a dedicated social enterprise ecommerce start-up programme for early-stage social entrepreneurs across the UK. Support provided will include training, coaching and financial support.
