Abstract

The digital revolution and the emergence of the Network Society have digitized the economy, paving the way for the burgeoning platform economy. This evolution encompasses a spectrum of models, from platform cooperativism to other prosocial-focused alternatives. The COVID-19 pandemic has only expedited this shift, while unmasking fresh gender equality challenges in the platform economy sphere. The social and solidarity economy (SSE) is actively engaged in this evolution. This session delves into models and public policies advocating for gender-equitable platforms, drawing insights from MatchImpulsa. This feminist-driven action-research initiative facilitates the digital transition of Barcelona's social economy. Spearheaded by the Barcelona UOC Chair in Digital Economy, MatchImpulsa is a collaboration between the Open University of Catalonia, Barcelona City Council, and the local development body, Barcelona Activa. The initiative encompasses over a hundred SSE enterprises connected to the strategic sectors of Barcelona's Social and Solidarity Economy 2030 program. It addresses three core areas: 1) Digital platform business strategies; 2) Gender perspective integration; and 3) Embracing open software and knowledge.