Josh Littlejohn: Redefining Social Enterprise Through Purpose-Driven Innovation
How a Scottish Entrepreneur Is Leading Global Action on Homelessness and Social Change
Introduction
Josh Littlejohn is one of the most influential voices in the field of social entrepreneurship today. Widely known as Dr Josh Littlejohn MBE, he has dedicated his life to addressing homelessness, poverty, and inequality through pioneering, purpose-driven business models. From founding the renowned social enterprise Social Bite to launching global initiatives like the World’s Big Sleep Out, Josh has created a blueprint for meaningful, ethical entrepreneurship.
Early Life and Background
Education and Inspiration
Born in Edinburgh, Scotland, Josh Littlejohn studied Politics and Economics at the University of Edinburgh, where he began developing a passion for public service and economic reform. Early volunteer experiences and a strong ethical compass led him toward a career in social impact leadership.
The Birth of Social Bite
From Sandwich Shop to Social Revolution
In 2012, Josh co-founded Social Bite, a humble sandwich shop with a bold mission—to help eradicate homelessness in Scotland. What started as a simple café quickly evolved into a transformative Edinburgh social enterprise employing people who had experienced homelessness.
Impact and Recognition
Today, Social Bite serves over 200,000 free meals per year and employs dozens of people affected by poverty and homelessness. This ethical business model not only provides sustainable employment but also fosters dignity and inclusion for marginalized individuals.
Social Bite Village: A Model for Housing First
Creating Modular Housing Solutions
In 2018, Josh launched the Social Bite Village, a community made up of modular housing units that provide both shelter and rehabilitative support. Located in Edinburgh, this project is based on the globally respected Housing First approach, focusing on long-term, stable accommodation as the foundation for rebuilding lives.
Success and Influence
The village has housed dozens of individuals, many of whom have transitioned into permanent housing or full-time work. This initiative stands as a shining example of how modular housing solutions and wraparound services can drive poverty reduction and community reintegration.
The World’s Big Sleep Out: Global Homelessness Awareness
A Celebrity-Backed Charity Campaign
In 2019, Josh launched the World’s Big Sleep Out, a global homelessness awareness event that engaged more than 60,000 participants across 52 cities, including New York, London, and Edinburgh. Featuring appearances by Will Smith, Helen Mirren, and other global icons, the event raised millions for homelessness charities worldwide.
Social Impact Beyond Borders
This initiative solidified Josh’s status as a homelessness campaigner with global reach. His ability to create celebrity-backed charity events showed that real change is possible when advocacy, storytelling, and action converge.
Brewgooder: Clean Water Through Craft Beer
A Unique Social Enterprise Model
Never one to limit his impact, Josh co-founded Brewgooder, a social enterprise Scotland is proud of. This craft beer brand donates 100% of its profits to clean water initiatives in developing countries. The goal? To provide clean water access to one million people.
Profits for Purpose
Brewgooder exemplifies the very heart of social entrepreneurship—using business as a vehicle for meaningful, measurable change.
Author, Speaker, and Social Thought Leader
Publishing a Bestseller
In 2023, Josh released his first book, “Paying It Forward: How to Be a Social Entrepreneur”, which became a Sunday Times bestselling author debut. The book outlines his journey, challenges, and lessons, offering aspiring change-makers a roadmap to ethical and effective entrepreneurship.
Inspiring the Next Generation
From TED-style talks to business forums, Josh continues to speak around the world, inspiring others to follow a purpose-driven business path that prioritizes social justice over profits.
Awards and Recognition
Honours for Humanity
For his extensive contributions, Dr Josh Littlejohn MBE has been awarded:
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MBE for homelessness advocacy
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Ernst & Young Social Entrepreneur of the Year
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Pride of Britain Special Recognition
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Robert Burns Humanitarian Award
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Multiple honorary doctorates from UK universities
These awards not only recognize Josh’s work but also underscore the growing importance of youth employment initiatives and social impact leadership in today’s world.
Lessons from Josh Littlejohn’s Journey
Key Takeaways for Aspiring Social Entrepreneurs
1. Start Small, Think Big
A single sandwich shop became a national and global movement. Let your mission grow naturally.
2. Purpose First, Profits Later
Josh proved that success doesn’t require sacrificing ethics—ethical business models can lead to financial sustainability and real-world impact.
3. Collaborate for Greater Reach
Whether working with celebrities or city councils, collaboration has been central to Josh’s success.
4. Innovate with Empathy
His initiatives reflect deep empathy combined with strategic innovation—a blend critical for effective change-making.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What is Josh Littlejohn best known for?
Josh Littlejohn is best known as the founder of Social Bite, a Scottish social enterprise tackling homelessness, and for initiating the World’s Big Sleep Out.
Q2: What is the Social Bite Village?
It’s a community of modular housing solutions in Edinburgh designed to help formerly homeless individuals transition to stable, independent living.
Q3: What is Brewgooder?
Brewgooder is a purpose-driven business that sells craft beer to fund clean water initiatives in underserved countries.
Q4: Has Josh Littlejohn written any books?
Yes, his debut book, “Paying It Forward”, became a Sunday Times bestseller in 2023.
Q5: What awards has he received?
Josh has received numerous awards, including an MBE, EY Social Entrepreneur of the Year, and the Pride of Britain Award.
Conclusion
Josh Littlejohn has transformed how the world thinks about business and social impact. Whether it’s through housing the homeless, funding clean water, or mentoring the next generation of social entrepreneurs, his work is a beacon of hope and a model of ethical, impactful leadership. Through Social Bite, Brewgooder, and global campaigns like the World’s Big Sleep Out, he has proven that compassion, when combined with action, can change the world.
