INSPIRE partner, the University of Groningen (RUG) has completed the report, “Business models typology of rural social entrepreneurship: facts, strengths, limitations” (D2.3), offering new insights into how social enterprises operate and create value in rural Europe. The report maps business models across the seven INSPIRE pilots using an innovative combination of digital ethnography, spatial microsimulations, and agent-based modelling.

The study identifies common patterns across rural social enterprises, ranging from essential and community services to education, employability, cultural activities, and specialised services. Despite their diversity, many share similar features: strong community engagement, low-cost or volunteer-driven structures, and a focus on meeting unmet local needs.

The analysis culminates in a Business Model Canvas summarising key strengths, challenges, and value propositions for rural social enterprises. This canvas will support the development of the Services and Social Economy Atlas and inform the design of SE-based solutions to be piloted later in the project.

By combining real-world observations with scenario-based modelling, the report provides a practical framework for policymakers, practitioners, and future social entrepreneurs seeking to strengthen rural social inclusion.

The full report (D2.3) is available here.

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