The Social Economy sector is an integral part of the NI economy and DETI is leading a more integrated approach to its development as a priority area within the 2008-2011 Building a Better Future Draft Programme for Government, 2008-2009 DETI Operating Plan and 2008-2011 DETI Corporate Plan

[SEN Associate Member]

Invest Northern Ireland recognises the important role the social economy has to play in developing the wealth of Northern Ireland.  If you are thinking of setting up a social enterprise to address a community need you can get help through the Social Entrepreneurship Programme.

 [SEN Associate Member]

The Rural Development Programme (RDP) is aimed at improving the economic, social and environmental conditions in rural areas throughout Northern Ireland. It brings together a wide range of support schemes and programmes for the farming, forestry and primary processing sectors, rural enterprise and business development, diversification and rural tourism.

Northern Ireland’s online business advice service. The website provides practical and impartial advice for NI businesses. Find information on all aspects of business including how to start and develop a social enterprise.

Central Procurement Directorate’s role is to support the Procurement Board in developing and reviewing procurement policy and to carry out an executive function in relation to the procurement of supplies, services and works for the public sector.
The Social Economy Trade Directory continues to be developed in consultation with CPD.

Enterprise Northern Ireland - the network of local enterprise agencies in Northern Ireland.
Local Enterprise Agencies are independent not-for-profit companies focusing on local economic and business development led by over 330 voluntary directors, employing almost 200 staff, operating from 42 locations, providing approximately 2,000 businesses units and a broad range of training and development. 

[Full SEN member]

Ulster Community Investment Trust Ltd (UCIT) was established in 1995 in response to decreasing grant support from government and the difficulties experienced by community organisations in accessing commercial loan facilities. The organisation now stands as the key provider of loan finance, free advice, business support and mentoring to the social economy sector in Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.

[Full Member]

The Investors in People Standard, awarded through DEL, is a business improvement tool designed to help employers improve performance by linking people development and skills acquisition to the specific aims and objectives of their businesses, to assess and improve the performance of their employees.

[SEN Associate Member]

UnLtd - the Foundation for Social Entrepreneurs - wants to support and develop the role of social entrepreneurs as a force for positive change in Northern Ireland.  With two levels of awards for enterprising ideas, Unltd helps individuals to make a difference and make their socially beneficial idea a reality.

 [SEN full member]

 

The UU Office of Innovation provides business support and expert advice for social economy enterprises. Our focus is on helping you to provide a competitive, innovative and client-focused service. We offer a ‘best in class’ service to social enterprises, providing bespoke services and training, as well as access to other relevant mainstream Ulster support. Support includes research activity, placement opportunities, innovation support and networking opportunities.

[SEN Associate Member]

Advantage is a leading company specialising in economic development and entrepreneurship for young people. They work with clients in the public, private and not-for-profit sectors and apply our expertise to promote starting a business as a realistic and viable career option to young people.

Advantage NI are currently running a programme in partnership with UnLtd called 'Impact' - for details - click here

Experienced Solutions services the community, voluntary and not-for-profit sectors.  They also provide specialist support to new and existing businesses.  

A company established so that their customers can benefit from the experience and expertise they have built up over many years.

 [SEN Associate Member]