Enterprise Project for Inverclyde Communities (EPIC)
About the Project
Enterprise Project for Investing in Communities (EPIC) is a programme delivered by CVS Inverclyde and funded by the UK Government via Inverclyde Council. EPIC was created to strengthen social enterprise in some of Inverclyde’s most disadvantaged communities by helping new ideas take shape, building the capacity of existing organisations and widening access to practical business support.
What EPIC Sets out to Achieve
EPIC aims to increase the number, confidence and long‑term sustainability of local social enterprises.
We do this by:
Establishing a sector‑led steering group
Providing one‑to‑one tailored support
Delivering accessible training
Helping individuals and organisations move from early ideas to fully formed enterprises
Support is focused on Greenock Central & East, Greenock Southwest and Port Glasgow — areas identified in the Scottish Index of Multiple Deprivation as experiencing the highest levels of deprivation.
What We’ve Delivered So Far
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Steering group development
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Community engagement
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Training and development
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Specialist events and workshops
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One-to-one support
Over the last few years, EPIC has delivered person‑centred support that helps people develop their ideas, build business skills and understand the practical steps involved in running a social enterprise. Through our hands-on approach, EPIC has supported numerous organisations as beneficiaries and increased understanding of social enterprise across the community.
Growing Inverclyde’s Social Enterprise Landscape
EPIC has supported the creation and growth of social enterprises across Inverclyde. Participants described the programme as motivating, confidence-building and transformative. Many leave with clearer business plans, renewed belief in their ideas and practical next steps. For some, EPIC has helped accelerate a new enterprise. For others, it provides important clarity about timing and business readiness.
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Six new CICs created
Covering environmental action, creative learning, coaching and outdoor wellbeing
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Existing organisations strengthened
With improved governance and new income pathways
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Increased confidence
With improved governance and new income pathways
Young Innovators Project
Young Innovators supports young people across Inverclyde to build the skills, confidence and mindset needed to become future social entrepreneurs.
Through workshops, mentoring and community‑focused activities, participants develop real business ideas with a social mission and gain SCQF‑accredited qualifications.
Delivered in partnership with Kibble’s Skills Academy, the programme offers a supportive, trauma‑informed environment for young people facing barriers to education or employment.
Why EPIC Matters
Social enterprises strengthen communities, create fair opportunities and address local challenges. EPIC helps unlock this potential by giving residents the skills, support and networks they need to lead change.
The programme reflects CVS Inverclyde’s commitment to building a resilient social enterprise ecosystem — one that supports innovation, increases social impact and expands opportunities across the area.
