Beterri Saretuz: Driving Transformative Social Economy in the Region

The Beterri Saretuz network promotes local economic and social development, based on collaboration and shared values among regional companies.

Generic image of a close-up of industrial machinery gears, with a factory interior in the background.
IA

Generic image of a close-up of industrial machinery gears, with a factory interior in the background.

Beterri Saretuz, a collaborative network comprising various companies, cooperatives, and agents from the region, promotes local economic and social development under the umbrella of the Transformative Social Economy.

This network aims to place economic activity at the service of people and the community, strengthening a territorial model based on cooperation. Among the values shared within Beterri Saretuz, collaboration, social commitment, participatory decision-making, the promotion of decent work, and a strong connection to the territory stand out.
The network strengthens local economic activity by fostering relationships and synergies among businesses in the area. Furthermore, it highlights the existence and operation of an alternative economic model, providing a space for creating joint projects and sharing knowledge.

"Economy is a tool to transform society."

A member of the Beterri Saretuz network
Talleres Mitxelena, founded in 1957 and located in Hernani, is an active member of the Beterri Saretuz network. This company specializes in the machining of large parts, manufacturing shafts of 14-17 meters and pieces weighing up to 40 tons. They work for various sectors such as shipbuilding, steel, and paper industries, primarily for local clients and generating 35% of their turnover in France.
Talleres Mitxelena places great importance on inter-cooperation and participates in projects such as Hernani Burujabe and Enherkom. The values of the transformative social economy are integrated into their internal regulations, believing in prioritizing people and making the economy serve them. Although it is a significant challenge for an industrial company, they strive to apply these values in their daily practice.
Looking ahead, the Beterri Saretuz network faces important challenges such as strengthening itself as a network, promoting the use of Basque in companies, competitiveness, generational handover, digitalization, and ecological transition. However, there is also a great opportunity to strengthen the local economy, offer alternative models to young people, and build a stronger community.