Social Enterprise
Introduction
Social enterprises play a key role in strengthening communities, supporting local economies and creating positive social impact across Inverclyde. This page brings together practical guidance, local support and useful resources to help you understand what a social enterprise is, explore opportunities and begin your own journey.
What is a Social Enterprise?
A social enterprise is an organisation that trades to achieve a clear social, environmental or community benefit. While it earns income through selling goods or services, its profits are reinvested towards its mission rather than distributed to owners.
Key features
· Social purpose first: addressing issues such as wellbeing, poverty, equality, environment or community development.
· Trading activity: generating income through products or services.
· Reinvesting profits: strengthening the mission and long-term sustainability.
· Community benefit: delivering positive impact for people and place.
Social enterprises can take many forms, including CICs, charities with trading arms, and co-operatives. They operate across sectors such as food, creative industries, employability, health, sports, environment and more.
Starting a Social Enterprise
CVS Inverclyde provides tailored guidance to individuals and groups exploring social enterprise ideas. We help you understand how social enterprise works, think through your mission and develop the practical steps needed to bring your idea to life.
How we support you
· Understanding your social mission and community impact
· Advice on governance, legal structures and choosing the right model
· Support with early business planning
· Guidance on funding, income generation and sustainability
· Connections to local partners, services and networks
· Signposting to training, events and learning opportunities
Our social enterprise support is delivered through EPIC, a programme funded by Inverclyde Council and the UK Government. EPIC focuses on creating local employment opportunities, supporting enterprise growth and helping residents develop strong, community-led organisations.
To discuss your idea, contact Tony Lockey, Programme Lead, at tony.lockey@cvsinverclyde.org.uk.
Starting a Social Enterprise
If you’re considering setting up a social enterprise, we can help you take the next steps. Below is an outline of what to expect when developing your idea.
1. Shape your mission
Think about the issue you want to address, who will benefit and how your work will create positive change. Understanding the difference, you want to make is the foundation of any social enterprise.
2. Develop your concept
Begin drafting your idea, including:
· The problem you're addressing
· Your proposed service or product
· Who will benefit and how
· How you will generate income
· What resources you may need
A simple draft business plan is a great starting point, and we can help you refine it.
3. Explore legal structures
Social enterprises can take several forms, such as:
· Community Interest Company (CIC)
· Scottish Charitable Incorporated Organisation (SCIO)
· Co-operative
· Company limited by guarantee
We will help you consider the structure that best fits your mission and long-term plans.
4. Meet with CVS Inverclyde
You can speak with our team to explore your idea further, ask questions and access tailored advice.
· Email or phone via our Contact Us page
· Visit us at West College Scotland, Finnart Street, Greenock
5. Build connections
We can link you with local partners, potential collaborators and other social enterprises across Inverclyde.
6. Look at funding options
We can help you explore:
· Local funding and grants
· Social investment options
· Business planning and budgeting support
7. Stay involved
CVSI hosts events, training and networking sessions designed to strengthen local enterprises and community-led initiatives.
Being Entrepreneurial
Social enterprise relies on people with ideas, determination and a desire to create positive change. Being entrepreneurial simply means being willing to try something new, take considered risks and learn along the way.
Entrepreneurs are often:
· Committed to improving their community
· Creative and resourceful
· Persistent when challenges arise
· Keen to learn and adapt
Inverclyde has a growing entrepreneurial community, with inspiring examples across social enterprise, technology, food, wellness, education and creative industries.
Useful Resources
Explore these helpful links for further guidance:
Setting up a social enterprise (GOV.UK) Setting up a social enterprise - GOV.UK
Office of the Regulator of Community Interest Companies (CIC Regulator) Office of the Regulator of Community Interest Companies - GOV.UK
Social Enterprise Scotland – What is a Social Enterprise? What is Social Enterprise? - Social Enterprise Scotland
For personalised support, contact Tony Lockey, Programme Lead at CVS Inverclyde: tony.lockey@cvsinverclyde.org.uk.