From 2002 - 2006, the Social Economy Agency acted as a co-ordinating agent to facilitate the establishment of an independant representative network for the social economy sector.

 The Social Economy Network was established with a board, elected by the sector and incorporated as a company limited by guarantee in 2006.  The network is currently funded by the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment for a four year period up until 2011.

The grant reduces year on year so the onus is on the network to generate income for future sustainability.

• A fair society in which communities are empowered to meet local social and economic needs

• To build an active social economy which aims for excellence in meeting community need

• Provide a strong, united and representative voice for the Social Economy Sector of Northern Ireland
• Promote the role of the Social Economy Sector and its contribution to socio-economic development;
• Represent the views of the Sector in engagement with Government and all key stakeholders;
• Provide a channel for Social Economy Sector input into policy development;
• Increase the business strength of the Sector and create a supportive and enabling environment for Sector growth

The network recruited a Director in July 2007 established an operating base at 171 York Road, Belfast in September 2007 and had a full compliment of staff.