Social Economy Support Programme

One of the greatest problems facing the Community and Voluntary Sector is its dependence on grant funding. Social economy projects are an example of how community organisations aim to become self-sustainable.

Through engaging Social Economy Solutions, Urban II initiated the Social Economy Support Programme with the aim of assisting existing or emerging community enterprises to develop and implement strategies to improve business performance and lead to long term sustainability.

Cliftonville Community Regeneration Forum were awarded £61,750 to carry out a feasibility study, and business plan for the development of a social economy hemp processing plant in North Belfast

Support was provided in a number of ways:

• Capacity Audits
• Specialised mentoring
• Business and strategic planning
• Generic and tailored training

Training modules include marketing skills, financial management, people management and project management.

25 groups have participated in the Social Economy Support Programme, in varying degrees, and 8 organisations have been awarded Urban II project grant funding to date. These projects include the provision of crèche facilities, a construction company, fitness suites and expansion of existing facilities.

A multi-media package has also been designed to help groups develop a better understanding of social economy issues. To access this resource please click here.

This programme has now closed to new applications. However, Urban will continue to support those groups who have participated in the Programme.

For further information please read the independent evaluation of the Social Economy Support Programme or contact Amanda Quinn on 028 90752990.