An open call for proposals to support the continued growth of
Northern Ireland's social enterprise sector has been launched by
the Department for the Economy.
Organisations are invited to apply to deliver support that will
help social enterprises develop leadership skills, increase
investment readiness, access new markets and unlock growth
opportunities.
Economy Minister Dr said: "Social
enterprises make a unique and valuable contribution to our
economy and communities. They create jobs, address social
challenges and reinvest in the people and places they serve.
"This open call will lead to helping social enterprises build
their capacity, strengthen leadership and access the support they
need to grow and thrive.
"By investing in the development of the sector, we are supporting
organisations that deliver real social and economic benefits
across our communities. I encourage organisations with the
expertise and experience to come forward and help us realise this
ambition."
Applications are invited from organisations interested in
delivering activity in one or more of the following areas -
sector representation; and support for themes identified within
the Social Enterprise Action Plan.
Organisations may apply to deliver activity across Northern
Ireland or within specific geographic areas. Applications can be
submitted by individual organisations or through consortium
arrangements.
Full details on eligibility, assessment criteria and application
requirements are available in the Information Pack on the
Department for the Economy website Social Enterprise Support
Programme Open Call | Department for the Economy.
Applications should be submitted to socialeconomy@economy-ni.gov.uk
by 30 October 2026.
Notes to editors
- The Social Enterprise Support Programme supports the
implementation of priorities identified through the Social
Enterprise Action Plan and aims to strengthen the capacity,
sustainability and growth of the social enterprise sector across
Northern Ireland.
- The Social Enterprise Action Plan can be found at Social Enterprise Action Plan
| Department for the Economy
