A strong social economy sector requires suitable financial resources without which its organisations cannot operate in a sustainable manner. This paper examined the different kinds of finance used by SEOs to carry out their mission. These include; membership funds, grants, debt finance, quasi-equity and equity finance. With the use of three SEOs as case studies, it illustrated how these different kinds of finance are combined and how their legal frameworks vary. Based on information gathered and analysed, the paper elaborated on constitutive elements of a ‘good’ model of financing SEOs. These elements are applicable to all SEOs irrespective of the type of institution. The government has a greater role to play in this entire process by putting in place legislation which fosters an enabling environment. On their side, SEOs need to develop effective networks and adopt initiatives such as learning across borders which encourage knowledge transfer. However, it is very important to understand the local context in which each SEO operates and then adapts ‘good’ elements to the local environment, opening the door for further research on the social economy around the globe.