Just Enterprise 4 is here!
With the fourth iteration of the programme now officially launched, we thought it was a good time to take a closer look at what Just Enterprise actually is for those just discovering us and offer some insights into what’s new for anyone we’ve engaged with in the past!
So, without further ado, let’s dive in…
What is Just Enterprise?
Just Enterprise is the go-to source of support for social enterprises and enterprising Third Sector organisations in Scotland.
Funded by the Scottish Government, we deliver specialist support to anyone looking to start, strengthen or grow their social enterprise.
We do this in multiple ways including bespoke one-to-one support from one of our expert team of business advisers, interactive workshops or e-learning modules covering a variety of essential topics and even a range of leadership programmes and coaching.
Who qualifies for Just Enterprise support?
Any organisation or individual looking to further social or environmental aims through income-generating activity can benefit from our support.
This could look like:
- A potential social entrepreneur with nothing more concrete than an idea they wish to explore;
- An established social enterprise gearing up to enter new markets;
- A community group seeking to purchase a local building;
- A charity looking to diversify its income streams through an enterprising activity;
- And anything in between!
Our business advisers have a wide range of experience and come from diverse professional backgrounds, so no matter what sector you are in or what stage you’re at, we can pretty much guarantee that they will have the knowledge and skills to be able to help.
What support can I get?
You can access support in a variety of ways, and we are always reviewing our services to make sure that they meet the needs of participants.
Our engaging programme of workshops runs regularly throughout the year and covers the kinds of topics that will help your organisation flourish.
These include subject areas like:
- Idea development
- Business planning
- Governance
- Funding
- Marketing
- Measuring social impact
- Preparing for net zero
- And much more.
All our workshops are entirely free of charge and are delivered in-person or online in a webinar format.
As a busy social entrepreneur or Third Sector employee, we understand that it can sometimes be tricky to juggle learning with your many other priorities. That’s why we also have a growing selection of e-learning modules which can be accessed at a time and place to suit you and your schedule.
Whilst this range of learning options will go a long way towards equipping you with the knowledge and skills to drive success, we know that sometimes a more personal approach is required. This is where Just Enterprise’s unique one-to-one business support comes in.
Our formidable team of specialist advisers really are the best in the business. Each one already works for a Third Sector organisation, so they fully understand the challenges and opportunities which come from balancing social impact with income generation.
They can work with you on specific goals or problems by taking a holistic approach and applying practical, tailored solutions to your organisation’s unique context. By the end of the process, you will have increased confidence in your own ability to take the necessary steps to achieve your desired outcome.
You can find out more and apply for support on our support page.
Just Enterprise’s impact
Since its inception in 2011, we have supported over 11,000 individuals and nearly 8,000 organisations across all local authorities in Scotland, from urban social enterprises to rural community projects.
In real terms, this means that participating organisations have been helped to increase turnover by, on average, £50,000 and create two new full-time jobs – that’s some impact!
You can read some real-life stories of the impact Just Enterprise has had on the Just Enterprise blog.
Who is behind Just Enterprise?
The programme is delivered by a consortium of Third Sector partners led by CEIS Group. Between us, we cover all geographical areas of Scotland and have the experience and expertise to support social enterprises at any stage of their journey.
Our team of business advisers across the partnership numbers 40-50 at any given time, with each bringing their own set of specialist skills and knowledge to make sure that participants benefit from the exact support their unique situation requires. In addition to this, we have an expert panel of associates we can call upon should the need arise.
The 2023-27 Just Enterprise contract is fulfilled by CEIS, CEMVO Scotland, Community Enterprise, Firstport, Impact Hub Inverness, Inspiralba, Inspirent (formerly LESL), SEI UK, Social Enterprise Academy, Social Investment Scotland, Social Value Lab and The Circle.
What’s new for Just Enterprise 4?
In the twelve years since Just Enterprise began, the social enterprise sector in Scotland has seen big changes and big challenges. Now entering our fourth iteration, the programme continues to evolve to make sure that we provide the most relevant support to help the sector address these challenges.
This latest programme has been further expanded to cover key areas of the Scottish Government’s Social Enterprise Action Plan, including crucial guidance on Equality, Diversity and Inclusion and Net Zero.
We are also committed to making this the most inclusive iteration of the programme to date, with increased targeted support for those facing additional barriers due to disability, race or socio-economic factors.
We will be focusing on producing more digital and interactive content in line with changing audience preferences and making sure that all content is as accessible as possible.
We’ll also be keeping a closer ear to the ground in the sector itself to ensure that we continue to create and deliver workshops that keep abreast of the key issues and developments that affect our social enterprise ecosystem.
Stay up-to-date on our latest workshops and initiatives by joining us on LinkedIn and Twitter and make sure to sign up to receive email updates.
Ready to begin your journey with Just Enterprise?