SAW-B, established in 1981, is an association dedicated to promoting and implementing the social economy as a viable and tangible alternative to neoliberal capitalism. As both a federation of social economy associations and enterprises, a consultancy agency for social enterprise development, and an organization for continuous education, SAW-B mobilizes, challenges, supports, and innovates to foster the renewal of economic practices embodied by the social economy. (saw-b.be ) SAW-B brings together, defends, and represents over 130 social economy organizations in Wallonia and Brussels, spanning nearly all sectors of activity—from hospitality to housing, energy, and food. All members share the conviction that, together, they can transform society, inspire, and develop an economy with a social and solidarity-driven purpose. (saw-b.be ) The social economy is neither a catch-all term nor a means to repair the damages caused by capitalism. It represents credible alternatives that SAW-B aims to unite. (saw-b.be ) SAW-B's mission encompasses several key areas: Advocacy : By publishing studies and analyses, offering training sessions, and conducting workshops in the spirit of popular education, SAW-B contributes to the development of critical thinking about existing economic models. It supports citizens and workers in their desire to "take back control" over their economic and social lives. (saw-b.be ) Support : SAW-B assists individuals or groups with social enterprise projects, as well as existing social economy enterprises, to enhance their social impact, democratic dynamics, and economic viability, prioritizing social connections over commercial relationships. It also aids public authorities in integrating social clauses into public contracts and helps social enterprises respond to these clauses. (saw-b.be ) Innovation : As a research and experimentation laboratory for the social economy, SAW-B proposes and, in some cases, leads the implementation of new models that provide innovative responses to societal challenges. (saw-b.be ) SAW-B's community includes a diverse range of members, such as: De Bouche à Oreille : An alternative network in the heart of the Pays de Herve, comprising 12 groups active in various fields. They share common objectives: adopting a critical view of the world, being attentive to overlooked aspects of society, participating in the socio-cultural, social, and economic life of the region, and implementing concrete alternatives. They operate with a global approach to changing mentalities and structures for a fairer distribution of resources, respect for the planet, and the creation of a culture of peace and tolerance. (saw-b.be ) Cabas – Coopérative Alimentaire Belge des Artisan·e·s Solidaires : An alternative to large-scale distribution, this cooperative brings together producers, artisans, and citizens to support artisans in the food transition. Cabas provides marketing channels and shared logistics to strengthen their collective presence. Their products are available in organic stores, neighborhood grocery stores, several restaurants, and through an online store and a physical market in Ixelles. (saw-b.be ) FAIRCOOP : A cooperative aiming to valorize the milk of its members within a fair pricing structure. The goal is to sell dairy products under a brand owned by the agricultural sector, ensuring fair remuneration for all actors in the supply chain. The cooperative manages logistics, marketing, and negotiations with buyers, while existing structures handle milk collection and packaging. (saw-b.be ) Pro Velo : An association that develops personalized solutions to facilitate and strengthen the transition to cycling, contributing to a better quality of life. Pro Velo supports current and potential cyclists, teaches cycling skills, promotes a positive image of cycling, and assists in the development of cycling policies. The association has several branches across Wallonia, Brussels, and the Brabant Wallon region. (saw-b.be ) SAW-B's headquarters are located at 42/6 rue de Monceau Fontaine, 6031 Monceau-sur-Sambre, with a Brussels office at 75 rue Botanique, 1210 Brussels. They are open Monday to Friday, from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. For more information, they can be contacted via email at [email protected] or by phone at +32 71 53 28 30. (saw-b.be )
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