What is a social enterprise?
A social enterprise is an organisation that trades in the market for a social purpose (Social Enterprise Coalition 2003).
The programme officially started on 1 June 2006 and is due to end on 31 March 2008. North Lincolnshire Council is one of the four delivery co-ordinators contracted to work with Social Enterprise Humber (formed through Business Link Humber).
Its main aims are to:
- Develop new and existing social enterprises in North Lincolnshire. This will be done by providing various workshops, and also contracting for one to one support. This will be tailored to meet individual social enterprises' needs, with the delivery partner of their choice.
- Develop a 'Practitioner Group'. This will be a network for social enterprises in North Lincolnshire and an important part of the programme. It will help develop a close working relationship and allow the programme to be as successful as possible.
The project will also provide 'on the ground' support. This comes as a tailored package to suit individuals or an organisation and follows a comprehensive assessment of needs.
Organisations will retain learning - building on capacity, skills and experience which creates sustainability.
A financial investment package will also be available for those planning new projects or an expansion of existing services, where an increase in earned income and employment generation can be demonstrated.
The project will focus on ensuring that social entrepreneurs and their workforce have the skills needed to be successful in business. Learning solutions will be provided on a one to one basis, or in workshops if the need applies to multiple businesses. The funding will pay for individual learning opportunities.
Business Link Humber will also seek to incorporate within the project any other mainstream learning and skills programmes applicable to social enterprises, such as Investors in People or Train to Gain.
The project will not support general voluntary and community sector activities where these are not linked with income generation.
Contact information
Economic Development Team
North Lincolnshire Council
Church Square House
PO Box 42
DN15 6XQ
Tel: + 44 (0) 1724 297330
Email: business.enquiries@northlincs.gov.uk.