Konstantinos Papadakis

​The Secondary Union of Social and Solidarity Economy Entities for the Region of Crete, known by its distinctive title CretanSCENT, serves as the institutional representative of the Social and Solidarity Economy (SSE) sector in Crete. Established under Article 9 of Law 4430/2016, CretanSCENT is one of twelve regional unions in Greece that advocate for SSE enterprises and organizations at both regional and national levels.​ CretanSCENT represents 163 active SSE entities across Crete, encompassing a diverse array of cooperatives, social enterprises, and community-based organizations. Its primary mission is to advocate for the interests of these entities, ensuring their voices are heard in policy-making processes and that they have access to necessary support and resources.​ The Union actively participates in local and national bodies and committees, reinforcing the presence and influence of the SSE ecosystem. It collaborates with public and private stakeholders to promote social entrepreneurship, social innovation, and sustainable development within the region. Additionally, CretanSCENT functions as a support center, offering business development services, educational programs, and capacity-building initiatives tailored to the needs of SSE entities.​ The Board of Directors of CretanSCENT comprises representatives from various SSE organizations, each bringing high-level expertise in entrepreneurial sectors and social economy matters. This diverse leadership ensures that the Union remains responsive to the evolving challenges and opportunities within the SSE landscape.​ Through its dedicated efforts, CretanSCENT plays a pivotal role in strengthening the regional and national SSE ecosystems, fostering inclusive growth, and contributing to the broader objectives of social cohesion and economic resilience in Crete.