Scots prepare to "Ignite" their social enterprises

Twenty of Scotland’s most aspiring social entrepreneurs are to get expert and free advice on how to take their businesses to the next level.

The Social Enterprise Academy has announced plans for a three day residential course called “Ignite” during which the selected group will be encouraged to identify their key motivation, clarify their goals, explore their options and plan the next steps to grow their organisations.

The tutor for the event will be Jay Lamb, who has been one of the main driving forces behind the amazing success of Re-Union, the canal boat business based on the Union Canal in Edinburgh.

The “Ignite” event is the first run by the Academy and reflects the realisation that there is enormous potential for growing some of Scotland’s most promising social enterprises, even in the present difficult economic climate.

Neil McLean, the Director of the Academy, says: “This is not for start-ups. We are looking for individuals who have been running a social enterprise with at least one member of staff for a minimum of two years. Crucially, they must have a desire to take their business to a new level and will appreciate the opportunity of working alongside like-minded people to develop their own plan of action.”

The three day residential course at the Houston House Hotel in Uphall, West Lothian will take place between Friday, October 29 and Monday, November 1.  It is supported by the Scottish Government and is fully funded, so there will be no fee for attending, but says Neil Mclean, “We think there will be serious competition for places, so anyone interested should get in touch as soon as possible.”

Potential applicants should email learn@theacademy-ssea.org or telephone 0131 243 2670.