Social Enterprise Development

Unlocking support and resources in Laois

Support for improving or starting a Social Enterprise

LPC supports voluntary groups/individuals all across Laois who are already running, or who are thinking of setting up a social enterprise. A social enterprise is a business run by a group of volunteers who charge for a product or service, where all traded income is reinvested in sustaining and developing the business, and where the product or service provided is a response to a local relevant social need. These supports come in many formats from individual staff or board member mentoring and guidance to the provision of facilitated relevant training, information or networking opportunities that will enhance the skills of those involved in the project.

Programme Priorities:
  • Community Development
  • Youth
  • Enterprise
What types of support are available?

LPC develops an interactive working relationship with social enterprises across Laois. These supports are aimed to be direct and relevant and take the following form depending on the stage of formation of the enterprise:

  1. Pre-development local community planning work supporting groups to identify and action social enterprise opportunities
  2. Provision of governance guidance to boards and staff members through mentoring or organised training
  3. Provision and support in accessing local and national financial supports (grant applications etc..)
  4. Provision of specific relevant training to board and staff members. This training covers many aspects of running a social enterprise with emphasis for next phase training under the headings of Capacity Building, Digital Innovation, Strategic planning and Governance).
  5. Mentoring advice and guidance for day to day issues
  6. Facilitated networking sessions to encourage shared learning and collaborative development.
Supports available to you
  • Training
  • Mentoring
  • Facilitated networking
This programme is designed to support any person or group who is interested or already involved in social enterprise development.

Benefits of working with Laois Partnership

Dedicated Specialist

A specialist will work with you to identify a programme, course or resource to benefit you and guide you through it.

Innovative Approaches

Through initiatives like SICAP & LEADER, LPC employ locally-led strategies to address persistent levels of deprivation.

Comprehensive Services

From childcare and youth programs to mental health and addiction support, we  have services tailored to your needs.