Getting Started

Part funded by the European Union European Regional Development Fund 2007-13

The first step

The first step in getting a social enterprise off the ground is meeting up with our specialist team and talking over your ideas. We will explain how we can help and if necessary, direct you to other organisations that can be of assistance.

We also offer support to existing organisations but if you are a new group we can help you work together as a team. We’ll arrange team-building events so you can pool knowledge, share your experiences and come together as a coherent group. We can then help you:

Set goals

Once you are sure that your idea can succeed we will help you plan the next step to get the enterprise off the ground. You will need to

Set the overall aim of the business;
Describe how you will achieve your aims;
Identify your training needs;
Measure the size of the project.

Make it legal

There are a number of different options about the type of enterprise you will set up and what legal form it will take. We can offer advice on the best option for you and help with the necessary paperwork and registration documents.

You must also keep up-to-date with legal changes that affect you such as the Disability Discrimination Act.

Manage the project

You will need to establish a management committee or board to run the enterprise properly and the Economic Development Service can help you do this. The committee should be made up of local people who understand the needs of residents and can promote the work of your group.

Most importantly you will need a chairperson, a secretary and a treasurer to make sure the enterprise operates as an organised, legal and financially viable business.

Write a business plan

Once you have decided what your social enterprise is going to do you will need to put your plans down on paper. Business planning is a crucial part of any start-up, keeping you focused on your aims and establishing a blueprint for future success.

A business plan does not have to be a large, complicated document and should be a clear explanation of what you plan to do, and how you plan to do it. It should include:

A summary of your idea;
A description of your aims;
A list of your potential customers and competitors;
The product or service you will provide;
Marketing ideas;
Any research you have carried out;
How much money the enterprise will need.