"A social enterprise is a business with primarily social objectives whose surpluses are principally reinvested for that purpose in the business or in the community, rather than being driven by the need to maximise profit for shareholders and owners."

Department of Trade and Industry
   
.Funding & Support
If your good idea is now backed up by evidence of need, and a strong business plan, you are ready to look at the next stages of developing a project outline

Now is the time to present your plans to others who support, represent or work within or for your community.

This could include:-

  • Local councillors
  • Your local MP, MSP or MEP
  • Local residents/ community groups - consider how you may canvas their views through surveys, public meetings or questionnaires.
  • Members of your Local Social Economy Partnership .
  • Area Regeneration Agencies & Community Planning Partnerships - talk to your nearest one first. Find out what kind of support they can offer you.
  • Leaders of local business or enterprise
  • A local celebrity
  • Also have a look at our useful contacts page - this may be a helpful time to talk to consultants re fundraising and business planning. .

Having support for your project can not only make you feel good, but can also add credibility to your project.