Governor Braun Signs Employment Social Enterprise Bill, Paving Way for Broader Employment for Hoosiers

RecycleForce, Keys2Work, and Jumble Firewood joined legislators in Governor Mike Braun’s office for a ceremonial signing of House Enrolled Act 1289. The bipartisan bill legally defines Employment Social Enterprises (ESEs) in Indiana, creating a pathway for more nonprofits to adopt this model that creates jobs for Hoosiers with significant barriers to employment.

The bill is a significant step toward developing Indiana’s workforce by creating real jobs with real wages for individuals who face challenges finding employment. This economic development strategy helps to meet talent needs for Indiana employers by expanding the pool of potential candidates.

“House Enrolled Act 1289 is about investing in second chances for people – investments that pay off many times over for our economy and for our communities.” -State Representative Carey Hamilton.

RecycleForce, Keys2Work, and Jumble Firewood, all successful operators of Employment Social Enterprises, encourage other nonprofit leaders and funders to join them in this effort. The new law, in the context of a changing funding landscape, positions the ESE network as a promising business and economic development strategy for the state.

About Employment Social Enterprises (ESEs):

• ESEs are mission-driven organizations that operate with a business model to generate revenue.

• This revenue is reinvested into the enterprise’s social mission, which includes creating jobs and offering support services for individuals with barriers to employment.

• The approach fills a talent need for businesses while providing stable, meaningful work and income for those who need it most.