Social enterprises can be classified based on their mission orientation.

Social enterprises can be classified based on the level of integration between social programs and business activities.

Embedded	Integrated	External

Social enterprises, like private businesses, may sell products and services in a variety of markets.

Many economic development income-generating models, such as microfinance and business development programs, are designed so that the paying customer is also the client. In this model the clients are poor people, which limits income potential of the enterprise.