Free Support Available:
It’s never been a better time to start a social enterprise! We’re at a major ‘boom’ point of free business training support across the North East. This can feel both wonderful and daunting all at the same time! The best way to keep up with opportunities is through the North East Growth Hub, following providers on social media and browsing Eventbrite.
These opportunities are free because the providers have worked hard to secure funding to make it free for you. This means you may need to fill in paperwork to prove to their funders that they’ve done their jobs. It also might mean that not all services are available to everyone. For example, if you’re based in Gateshead, a training day funded by North Tyneside Council probably won’t be open to you. Be careful to check eligibility criteria before getting too excited about opportunities. It is however worth asking the Provider (we try to squeeze people in where ever we can!)
Social Enterprise Start-up Programmes:
If you are based in Durham (NE BIC), South Tyneside or Sunderland (PNE) get in touch with your Social Enterprise BOOST provider. They will be able to steer you in the right direction. Explore your idea, apply for start-up funds and get cracking!
If you’re based in North Tyneside (Business Factory), you can access a local offer as part of the Business Factory general business support package. Simply enquire via their website and you’ll be passed through to the team at Junction Point CIC. Here you can access 121 coaching and events to inspire you on your journey.
If you’re based in Northumberland, North Tyneside, Newcastle or Gateshead, you can access the Business with Purpose programme. This includes a 1.5hr diagnostic call with a coach followed by 4 half day workshops designed to take you from idea to action. Beyond this, you can access ongoing mentoring to help you register your new venture and apply for start-up funds. This programme is about supporting socially trading organisations not just social enterprises.
If you’re based in Newcastle, you can access Pilot a Social Enterprise. This is a 30hr accredited Level 1 Course which helps you to develop your social impact idea and trial it with the support of training, coaching and seed funding. Registration is now open so be quick to sign up!
If your area has multiple offers, you can can access them all!
Social Enterprise events:
How to start a Business with Purpose: Tues 24th Sep 12.30-15.30. Online: Hear from local founders who run Environmental, Community and Art-focused organisations. Explore your idea with likeminded people.
BIPC Social Enterprise Themed Brunch: Tues 15th Oct, 10.00-13.00, BIPC, Morpeth: Meet likeminded people, hear success stories. Get your questions answered by experts.
Social Enterprise Day 2024: Thursday 21st Nov, 10.00-16.00, Newcastle or online: It’s the biggest day in the social enterprise calendar year!! Get your tickets & join us in celebrating this day.
