Starting a business

Here’s how we run a successful social enterprise business

llandi — Mon, 24 Mar 2025 13:58:53 +0000

Here’s how we run a successful social enterprise business llandi Mon, 24/03/2025 - 13:58

Start a social enterprise

In this guide:

The social economy in Northern Ireland

An overview of social enterprises who make up an increasingly diverse and crucial sector of business in Northern Ireland
The social enterprise economy in Northern Ireland is an increasingly well-established and diverse sector. It creates opportunities and training for people who are often marginalised in society, driving social impact in these communities.

Figures released by Social Enterprise NI in its 'Re-balancing the NI Economy Report 2019' indicate there are almost 843 social enterprises in Northern Ireland, generating an annual turnover of approximately £980 million. It highlights there are almost 25,000 people employed in Northern Ireland's social economy.

What is social impact?

Social impact is the change in individuals or communities from specific actions. It is essential for social enterprises to demonstrate the effects of their initiatives to justify their efforts and attract 91�㽶��ɫ��Ƶ.

The top three goals of social enterprises in Northern Ireland are to:

enhance the community

assist people in gaining employment

improve the environment

The top three social enterprise activities are:

education

employment and skills

business 91�㽶��ɫ��Ƶ

The Department for the Economy provides more information on the social economy in Northern Ireland.
Actions

Download guidance on understanding social impact (PDF, 125K)

Content category

Starting a business
Source URL
/content/social-economy-northern-ireland

Links
Social enterprises and the public sector

Ways for social enterprises to maximise their chances of winning public sector contracts through tender competitions
Winning contracts to deliver public services can provide a regular income stream for social enterprises. Although as with most businesses, it is important for social enterprises to diversify income sources so that they are less vulnerable to the risks of one income source drying up.

The ability to deliver innovative approaches and fresh thinking to services, such as catering and recycling, make social enterprises an attractive option for public services. However, they will be required to compete for tenders through the public sector procurement process - read about how to tender for contracts in the Northern Ireland public sector.

There are a wide variety of opportunities in the delivery of public services, where social enterprises work in partnership with government, including:

the health and social care sector

fostering and adoption

transport services

refuse collection/recycling

sports and leisure services

eSourcing NI is an electronic tendering site which allows you to access the latest public procurement opportunities in Northern Ireland.

Social Enterprise NI (SENI) has an online directory listing social enterprises in Northern Ireland where you can find out about the activities of individual businesses. To access the complete directory, you need SENI membership - find out how to become a member.

Benefits of public sector contracts

Public sector organisations are stable customers who pay promptly and within agreed contract terms and due to the public procurement process you can be assured contacts are awarded in a fair and transparent way.

Barriers facing social enterprises competing for public service contracts

One of the main barriers facing social enterprises when competing for public service contracts is resource capability - will you be able to deliver on the requirements of the contract? Also will the contract allow you to meet your goals and social purpose?
Also on this site

Tender for public sector contracts in Great Britain and Ireland

Tender for a contract

Choose the right structure for your social enterprise

Content category

Starting a business
Source URL
/content/social-enterprises-and-public-sector

Links
Support for social enterprises in Northern Ireland

A range of 91�㽶��ɫ��Ƶ to help social entrepreneurs realise their vision and run their social enterprise.

As well as the mainstream 91�㽶��ɫ��Ƶ available to all business start-ups there are some initiatives designed for social entrepreneurs.

Social Enterprise NI is a central meeting point for social enterprises in Northern Ireland. It provides a platform for collaboration and knowledge sharing. You can also keep track of the latest events and news relating to social enterprises.

If you are not a Social Enterprise NI member - you can apply for membership to access new business opportunities, network with social enterprise leaders, share best practice, collaborate with like-minded organisations, and receive advice and guidance. Read more on how to become a SENI member.

Also on this site

Choose the right structure for your social enterprise

Content category

Starting a business

Source URL
/content/91�㽶��ɫ��Ƶ-social-enterprises-northern-ireland

Links
Financial 91�㽶��ɫ��Ƶ for social enterprises in Northern Ireland

Financial schemes and 91�㽶��ɫ��Ƶ available to start or grow your social enterprise.

Various financial schemes and programmes provide dedicated assistance specifically for social enterprises, to help them start or grow.
Support schemes for starting and expanding social enterprises
Social Enterprise Thematic Programme
Support is offered for social enterprises to elevate their skills through one-on-one mentoring and online workshops, focusing on fundraising, digital marketing, and social impact planning - find out more about the Social Enterprise Thematic Programme.
Social Enterprise Bootcamp
Bespoke mentoring and exclusive workshops is provided to help enhance the skills of social enterprises which are actively trading with ambitions to grow - find out more about the Social Enterprise Bootcamp.
Social Enterprise and Co-operative Support
Assistance is available for individuals or groups interested in starting a new social enterprise or co-operative, or for organisations currently relying on funding and wanting to explore moving to a social enterprise or co-operative model – find out more about the Social Enterprise and Co-operative Support.
Growth Impact Fund
The Growth Impact Fund is for all social purpose organisations operating in consumer business, education and learning, employment and training, and health and social care - find out more about the Growth Impact Fund.
Green Support Scheme
The Green Support Scheme 91�㽶��ɫ��Ƶs local businesses and social enterprises to implement sustainable practices, reduce carbon emissions, and create a bespoke Carbon Reduction Action Plan - find out more about the Green Support Scheme.
Harnessing Heritage Programme
The Architectural Heritage Fund (AHF) helps communities across the UK find enterprising new ways to revitalise old buildings through advice, grants, and social investment loans - find out more about the Harnessing Heritage Programme.
Village Catalyst Programme
The Architectural Heritage (AHF) funds the Village Catalyst Programme, an innovative partnership scheme aiming to help target rural poverty and social isolation via the reuse of historic buildings - find out more about the Village Catalyst Programme.
Millenium Awards Trust
The Millennium Awards are open to any social entrepreneur aged 16 years and older tackling a range of social issues - find out more about the Millenium Awards Trust.
National Lottery Awards for All Northern Ireland
The National Lottery Awards for All Northern Ireland provides funding from £300 to £20,000 to 91�㽶��ɫ��Ƶ community-led projects for up to two years - find out more about the National Lottery Awards for All Northern Ireland.
Community Finance Ireland Loan
The Community Finance Ireland Loan is available to social enterprises, community projects and sports clubs across all of Ireland - find out more about the Community Finance Ireland Loan.
PEACEPLUS Change Maker Funding Programme
Funding to 91�㽶��ɫ��Ƶ the implementation of projects through a small grants programme.
Various organisations are eligible to apply, including voluntary sector organisations. Organisations that operate for private profit are not eligible to apply. Find out more about the PEACEPLUS Change Maker Funding Programme.
MSE Charity Grants
Social enterprises, community interest companies (CICs), credit unions, not-for-profit companies limited by guarantee, and UK registered charities can apply for grants of between £2,000 and £10,000 to 91�㽶��ɫ��Ƶ activities that improve people’s ability to become more financially capable. Find out more about the MSE Charity Grants.
Open Grants Programme
The Clothworkers' Foundation now accept applications for the Open Grants Programme, open to UK registered charities, Community Interest Companies (CICs), social enterprises and other registered UK not-for-profit organisations. Find out more about the Open Grants Programme.
Business finance and 91�㽶��ɫ��Ƶ finder
Our Business Support Finder helps you find publicly funded assistance specific to your business. It lists 91�㽶��ɫ��Ƶ in various forms, including financial aid and free or subsidised advice services. Search the Northern Ireland business 91�㽶��ɫ��Ƶ finder.

Also on this site

Local 91�㽶��ɫ��Ƶ for start-ups

Content category

Starting a business

Source URL
/content/financial-91�㽶��ɫ��Ƶ-social-enterprises-northern-ireland

Links
Checklist: starting a social enterprise

A checklist of key questions you should consider to help you succeed when setting up a social enterprise
Before setting up a social enterprise, you might want to ask yourself the following questions to see if you are ready and whether a social enterprise is right for you:

Have you considered what legal form your social enterprise is going to take? Options include unincorporated associations, trusts, limited companies, industrial and provident societies, Community Interest Companies and charitable incorporated organisations. For more information about social enterprise legal structures see choose the right structure for your social enterprise.

Have you explored all the start-up 91�㽶��ɫ��Ƶ options available to you and your social enterprise? See 91�㽶��ɫ��Ƶ for social enterprises in Northern Ireland.

Are you completely committed to the social and/or environmental aims of the company?

Have you thought about how you will finance the social enterprise, both at start-up and during periods of growth? If you are using your own money, will you be able to survive while the business finds its feet? See find and manage the money.

Do you have a viable business idea - ie is there a market for your service or product? Read about how to research and develop your business ideas, new products and services.

Have you considered how you will research your customers, or engage with your stakeholders? See develop a sales and marketing strategy.

Will you require the services of professionals such as an accountant or solicitor? For further information about working with professionals see use professional services.

Will you need to employ staff in your social enterprise and do you know the requirements of becoming an employer? Find out more about how to hire staff.
Also on this site

Choose the right structure for your social enterprise

Ten steps to a successful start-up

Content category

Starting a business
Source URL
/content/checklist-starting-social-enterprise

Links
Start a social enterprise

Starting a social enterprise - SlackPress (video)

How SlackPress developed into a self-sufficient social enterprise that engages with the local community

Simon Black, co-founder of SlackPress, discusses how the SlackPress team created a social enterprise.

SlackPress is a media production social enterprise specialising in creative design. SlackPress works with community groups, other social enterprises, charities and corporate businesses to help them develop media content for DVDs, websites and social networks.

Here, Simon explains how SlackPress developed into a self-sufficient social enterprise that successfully engages with the local community.

Case Study
Simon Black

Content category

Starting a business

Source URL
/content/starting-social-enterprise-slackpress-video

Links
Start a social enterprise

Here's how we run a social enterprise - Loaf Catering (video)

How Loaf Catering operates as a social enterprise, generates income and engages with the local community

Loaf Catering is a social enterprise that was developed in 2007 to provide jobs and training opportunities for people with learning disabilities and autism. The company focuses on delivering under its strapline 'food with purpose'.

With the 91�㽶��ɫ��Ƶ of its parent organisation the NOW Group, Loaf Catering has grown to an enterprise that includes four cafés, a catering academy and an online shop.

Maeve Monaghan, Chief Executive of the NOW Group, explains how Loaf Catering operates as a business, generates income and engages with the local community.

Case Study
Maeve Monaghan

Content category

Starting a business

Source URL
/content/heres-how-we-run-social-enterprise-loaf-catering-video

Links
Start a social enterprise

Here’s how we run a successful social enterprise business

Rachel McIlgorm highlights the benefits of being a social enterprise and how it plays a crucial role in the business's success.

Storybox, a Belfast-based social enterprise, sources and sells ethical gifts from local makers, social enterprises, and sustainable brands.

In addition to its online and physical shop, Storybox hosts workshops, classes, and events in its space, creating a hub for purpose-driven businesses to connect, collaborate, and thrive.

Storybox founder, Rachel McIlgorm, explains how being a social enterprise benefits and drives the business's success.

Why I chose to be a social enterprise

"I created Storybox to combine my passion for 91�㽶��ɫ��Ƶing local businesses with giving back to the community. I wanted to create gifts that felt meaningful and carried a positive impact."

"The social enterprise model felt like the right fit from the start. It aligns with my values of making conscious business choices and encouraging others to do the same. We set up Storybox legally as a social enterprise to hold the business and our future team accountable as we grow. "

"After researching different options, I decided to set up Storybox as a Community Interest Company (CIC). This structure made the most sense, allowing us to reinvest profits into our social mission while still operating as a business."

"As a social enterprise, Storybox focuses on more than selling products. We encourage thoughtful gifting and bring people together to share stories. Whether browsing online, visiting the shop, or joining a community event or workshop, we aim to create connections and make a positive impact."

Advantages and challenges of running a social enterprise

"Running Storybox as a social enterprise delivers a powerful ripple effect with every order - we 91�㽶��ɫ��Ƶ local businesses, boost social awareness, and contribute to charities. The knowledge that we've built our business on something greater than simply selling products makes all the difference."

"With the growing demand for ethical and sustainable options, our social enterprise status helps us draw customers who want their purchases to reflect their core values."

"We prioritise balancing profit and purpose in every aspect of our business. From selecting suppliers to setting fair prices, each decision must align with our social mission. We also actively cultivate relationships with like-minded partners and ensure transparency regarding our charitable contributions."

"Partnering with charities allows us to give back to causes that mean a lot to us. It’s not just about donating proceeds – it’s about raising awareness and using our platform to highlight the incredible work these organisations do. We've donated to Friends of the Earth NI and PIPS Suicide Prevention Ireland. We're proud of what we've achieved and hope to continue growing our contributions."

"The main things we look for in the products we sell are quality, sustainability, ethical production, and whether the brand shares our commitment to social impact. Customers can choose from our pre-made gift boxes or customise their own through our ‘Build a Box’ feature. It's important to us to include a variety of businesses – from those with diverse backgrounds to those 91�㽶��ɫ��Ƶing different causes – so every box tells a bigger story about the brilliant makers and local businesses doing good work."

"Social enterprises often face additional challenges when accessing finance because there isn't always the same level of understanding or tailored 91�㽶��ɫ��Ƶ available. Securing funding can be harder while staying true to both commercial and social impact goals."

Support and funding

"My journey benefited from invaluable 91�㽶��ɫ��Ƶ provided by Work West and Social Enterprise NI, including mentoring and publicity. The council and the Housing Executive gave us small but important grants, which allowed us to move forward. Every bit of funding helped us grow steadily. I focus on slow and sustainable growth and am happy to maintain this pace."

"Other small business owners offered significant 91�㽶��ɫ��Ƶ. Those casual meet-ups, chats, and coffees have been crucial; I honestly don't think the business would be where it is now without them."

Success and growth

"Support networks and funding opportunities greatly contributed to the growth and success of Storybox."

"Initially, I only dreamed of Storybox's potential, never imagining a physical shop."

"Expanding from an online business to moving to Portview Trade Centre has opened up brilliant opportunities to collaborate with other local businesses on site. We now host at least five monthly workshops and pop-up events, from painting and cake decorating to cross-community crafts and book launches, to bring people together, while also showcasing products from Portview-based makers in our gift boxes."

"Having a physical shop has given customers the chance to see the products and meet the people behind the brand, which brings the Storybox story to life in a much more profound way. It’s also allowed us to offer a more personal experience and build stronger relationships with the local community. I’ve developed a close relationship with my suppliers, and I genuinely love sharing their stories with customers. The impact becomes real when you witness customers’ reactions."

"Our shop offers a welcoming, inclusive space. Local residents appreciate having a community hub on Newtownards Road. Supporting charities like PIPS Suicide Prevention Ireland encourages customers to share their personal experiences and how these charities have helped them."

Case Study
Rachel McIlgorm

Content category

Starting a business

Source URL
/content/heres-how-we-run-successful-social-enterprise-business

Links

Financial 91�㽶��ɫ��Ƶ for social enterprises in Northern Ireland

llandi — Tue, 11 Mar 2025 09:55:32 +0000

Financial 91�㽶��ɫ��Ƶ for social enterprises in Northern Ireland llandi Tue, 11/03/2025 - 09:55

Start a social enterprise

In this guide:

The social economy in Northern Ireland

An overview of social enterprises who make up an increasingly diverse and crucial sector of business in Northern Ireland
The social enterprise economy in Northern Ireland is an increasingly well-established and diverse sector. It creates opportunities and training for people who are often marginalised in society, driving social impact in these communities.

Figures released by Social Enterprise NI in its 'Re-balancing the NI Economy Report 2019' indicate there are almost 843 social enterprises in Northern Ireland, generating an annual turnover of approximately £980 million. It highlights there are almost 25,000 people employed in Northern Ireland's social economy.

What is social impact?

Social impact is the change in individuals or communities from specific actions. It is essential for social enterprises to demonstrate the effects of their initiatives to justify their efforts and attract 91�㽶��ɫ��Ƶ.

The top three goals of social enterprises in Northern Ireland are to:

enhance the community

assist people in gaining employment

improve the environment

The top three social enterprise activities are:

education

employment and skills

business 91�㽶��ɫ��Ƶ

The Department for the Economy provides more information on the social economy in Northern Ireland.
Actions

Download guidance on understanding social impact (PDF, 125K)

Content category

Starting a business
Source URL
/content/social-economy-northern-ireland

Links
Social enterprises and the public sector

Ways for social enterprises to maximise their chances of winning public sector contracts through tender competitions
Winning contracts to deliver public services can provide a regular income stream for social enterprises. Although as with most businesses, it is important for social enterprises to diversify income sources so that they are less vulnerable to the risks of one income source drying up.

The ability to deliver innovative approaches and fresh thinking to services, such as catering and recycling, make social enterprises an attractive option for public services. However, they will be required to compete for tenders through the public sector procurement process - read about how to tender for contracts in the Northern Ireland public sector.

There are a wide variety of opportunities in the delivery of public services, where social enterprises work in partnership with government, including:

the health and social care sector

fostering and adoption

transport services

refuse collection/recycling

sports and leisure services

eSourcing NI is an electronic tendering site which allows you to access the latest public procurement opportunities in Northern Ireland.

Social Enterprise NI (SENI) has an online directory listing social enterprises in Northern Ireland where you can find out about the activities of individual businesses. To access the complete directory, you need SENI membership - find out how to become a member.

Benefits of public sector contracts

Public sector organisations are stable customers who pay promptly and within agreed contract terms and due to the public procurement process you can be assured contacts are awarded in a fair and transparent way.

Barriers facing social enterprises competing for public service contracts

One of the main barriers facing social enterprises when competing for public service contracts is resource capability - will you be able to deliver on the requirements of the contract? Also will the contract allow you to meet your goals and social purpose?
Also on this site

Tender for public sector contracts in Great Britain and Ireland

Tender for a contract

Choose the right structure for your social enterprise

Content category

Starting a business
Source URL
/content/social-enterprises-and-public-sector

Links
Support for social enterprises in Northern Ireland

A range of 91�㽶��ɫ��Ƶ to help social entrepreneurs realise their vision and run their social enterprise.

As well as the mainstream 91�㽶��ɫ��Ƶ available to all business start-ups there are some initiatives designed for social entrepreneurs.

Social Enterprise NI is a central meeting point for social enterprises in Northern Ireland. It provides a platform for collaboration and knowledge sharing. You can also keep track of the latest events and news relating to social enterprises.

If you are not a Social Enterprise NI member - you can apply for membership to access new business opportunities, network with social enterprise leaders, share best practice, collaborate with like-minded organisations, and receive advice and guidance. Read more on how to become a SENI member.

Also on this site

Choose the right structure for your social enterprise

Content category

Starting a business

Source URL
/content/91�㽶��ɫ��Ƶ-social-enterprises-northern-ireland

Links
Financial 91�㽶��ɫ��Ƶ for social enterprises in Northern Ireland

Financial schemes and 91�㽶��ɫ��Ƶ available to start or grow your social enterprise.

Various financial schemes and programmes provide dedicated assistance specifically for social enterprises, to help them start or grow.
Support schemes for starting and expanding social enterprises
Social Enterprise Thematic Programme
Support is offered for social enterprises to elevate their skills through one-on-one mentoring and online workshops, focusing on fundraising, digital marketing, and social impact planning - find out more about the Social Enterprise Thematic Programme.
Social Enterprise Bootcamp
Bespoke mentoring and exclusive workshops is provided to help enhance the skills of social enterprises which are actively trading with ambitions to grow - find out more about the Social Enterprise Bootcamp.
Social Enterprise and Co-operative Support
Assistance is available for individuals or groups interested in starting a new social enterprise or co-operative, or for organisations currently relying on funding and wanting to explore moving to a social enterprise or co-operative model – find out more about the Social Enterprise and Co-operative Support.
Growth Impact Fund
The Growth Impact Fund is for all social purpose organisations operating in consumer business, education and learning, employment and training, and health and social care - find out more about the Growth Impact Fund.
Green Support Scheme
The Green Support Scheme 91�㽶��ɫ��Ƶs local businesses and social enterprises to implement sustainable practices, reduce carbon emissions, and create a bespoke Carbon Reduction Action Plan - find out more about the Green Support Scheme.
Harnessing Heritage Programme
The Architectural Heritage Fund (AHF) helps communities across the UK find enterprising new ways to revitalise old buildings through advice, grants, and social investment loans - find out more about the Harnessing Heritage Programme.
Village Catalyst Programme
The Architectural Heritage (AHF) funds the Village Catalyst Programme, an innovative partnership scheme aiming to help target rural poverty and social isolation via the reuse of historic buildings - find out more about the Village Catalyst Programme.
Millenium Awards Trust
The Millennium Awards are open to any social entrepreneur aged 16 years and older tackling a range of social issues - find out more about the Millenium Awards Trust.
National Lottery Awards for All Northern Ireland
The National Lottery Awards for All Northern Ireland provides funding from £300 to £20,000 to 91�㽶��ɫ��Ƶ community-led projects for up to two years - find out more about the National Lottery Awards for All Northern Ireland.
Community Finance Ireland Loan
The Community Finance Ireland Loan is available to social enterprises, community projects and sports clubs across all of Ireland - find out more about the Community Finance Ireland Loan.
PEACEPLUS Change Maker Funding Programme
Funding to 91�㽶��ɫ��Ƶ the implementation of projects through a small grants programme.
Various organisations are eligible to apply, including voluntary sector organisations. Organisations that operate for private profit are not eligible to apply. Find out more about the PEACEPLUS Change Maker Funding Programme.
MSE Charity Grants
Social enterprises, community interest companies (CICs), credit unions, not-for-profit companies limited by guarantee, and UK registered charities can apply for grants of between £2,000 and £10,000 to 91�㽶��ɫ��Ƶ activities that improve people’s ability to become more financially capable. Find out more about the MSE Charity Grants.
Open Grants Programme
The Clothworkers' Foundation now accept applications for the Open Grants Programme, open to UK registered charities, Community Interest Companies (CICs), social enterprises and other registered UK not-for-profit organisations. Find out more about the Open Grants Programme.
Business finance and 91�㽶��ɫ��Ƶ finder
Our Business Support Finder helps you find publicly funded assistance specific to your business. It lists 91�㽶��ɫ��Ƶ in various forms, including financial aid and free or subsidised advice services. Search the Northern Ireland business 91�㽶��ɫ��Ƶ finder.

Also on this site

Local 91�㽶��ɫ��Ƶ for start-ups

Content category

Starting a business

Source URL
/content/financial-91�㽶��ɫ��Ƶ-social-enterprises-northern-ireland

Links
Checklist: starting a social enterprise

A checklist of key questions you should consider to help you succeed when setting up a social enterprise
Before setting up a social enterprise, you might want to ask yourself the following questions to see if you are ready and whether a social enterprise is right for you:

Have you considered what legal form your social enterprise is going to take? Options include unincorporated associations, trusts, limited companies, industrial and provident societies, Community Interest Companies and charitable incorporated organisations. For more information about social enterprise legal structures see choose the right structure for your social enterprise.

Have you explored all the start-up 91�㽶��ɫ��Ƶ options available to you and your social enterprise? See 91�㽶��ɫ��Ƶ for social enterprises in Northern Ireland.

Are you completely committed to the social and/or environmental aims of the company?

Have you thought about how you will finance the social enterprise, both at start-up and during periods of growth? If you are using your own money, will you be able to survive while the business finds its feet? See find and manage the money.

Do you have a viable business idea - ie is there a market for your service or product? Read about how to research and develop your business ideas, new products and services.

Have you considered how you will research your customers, or engage with your stakeholders? See develop a sales and marketing strategy.

Will you require the services of professionals such as an accountant or solicitor? For further information about working with professionals see use professional services.

Will you need to employ staff in your social enterprise and do you know the requirements of becoming an employer? Find out more about how to hire staff.
Also on this site

Choose the right structure for your social enterprise

Ten steps to a successful start-up

Content category

Starting a business
Source URL
/content/checklist-starting-social-enterprise

Links
Start a social enterprise

Starting a social enterprise - SlackPress (video)

How SlackPress developed into a self-sufficient social enterprise that engages with the local community

Simon Black, co-founder of SlackPress, discusses how the SlackPress team created a social enterprise.

SlackPress is a media production social enterprise specialising in creative design. SlackPress works with community groups, other social enterprises, charities and corporate businesses to help them develop media content for DVDs, websites and social networks.

Here, Simon explains how SlackPress developed into a self-sufficient social enterprise that successfully engages with the local community.

Case Study
Simon Black

Content category

Starting a business

Source URL
/content/starting-social-enterprise-slackpress-video

Links
Start a social enterprise

Here's how we run a social enterprise - Loaf Catering (video)

How Loaf Catering operates as a social enterprise, generates income and engages with the local community

Loaf Catering is a social enterprise that was developed in 2007 to provide jobs and training opportunities for people with learning disabilities and autism. The company focuses on delivering under its strapline 'food with purpose'.

With the 91�㽶��ɫ��Ƶ of its parent organisation the NOW Group, Loaf Catering has grown to an enterprise that includes four cafés, a catering academy and an online shop.

Maeve Monaghan, Chief Executive of the NOW Group, explains how Loaf Catering operates as a business, generates income and engages with the local community.

Case Study
Maeve Monaghan

Content category

Starting a business

Source URL
/content/heres-how-we-run-social-enterprise-loaf-catering-video

Links
Start a social enterprise

Here’s how we run a successful social enterprise business

Rachel McIlgorm highlights the benefits of being a social enterprise and how it plays a crucial role in the business's success.

Storybox, a Belfast-based social enterprise, sources and sells ethical gifts from local makers, social enterprises, and sustainable brands.

In addition to its online and physical shop, Storybox hosts workshops, classes, and events in its space, creating a hub for purpose-driven businesses to connect, collaborate, and thrive.

Storybox founder, Rachel McIlgorm, explains how being a social enterprise benefits and drives the business's success.

Why I chose to be a social enterprise

"I created Storybox to combine my passion for 91�㽶��ɫ��Ƶing local businesses with giving back to the community. I wanted to create gifts that felt meaningful and carried a positive impact."

"The social enterprise model felt like the right fit from the start. It aligns with my values of making conscious business choices and encouraging others to do the same. We set up Storybox legally as a social enterprise to hold the business and our future team accountable as we grow. "

"After researching different options, I decided to set up Storybox as a Community Interest Company (CIC). This structure made the most sense, allowing us to reinvest profits into our social mission while still operating as a business."

"As a social enterprise, Storybox focuses on more than selling products. We encourage thoughtful gifting and bring people together to share stories. Whether browsing online, visiting the shop, or joining a community event or workshop, we aim to create connections and make a positive impact."

Advantages and challenges of running a social enterprise

"Running Storybox as a social enterprise delivers a powerful ripple effect with every order - we 91�㽶��ɫ��Ƶ local businesses, boost social awareness, and contribute to charities. The knowledge that we've built our business on something greater than simply selling products makes all the difference."

"With the growing demand for ethical and sustainable options, our social enterprise status helps us draw customers who want their purchases to reflect their core values."

"We prioritise balancing profit and purpose in every aspect of our business. From selecting suppliers to setting fair prices, each decision must align with our social mission. We also actively cultivate relationships with like-minded partners and ensure transparency regarding our charitable contributions."

"Partnering with charities allows us to give back to causes that mean a lot to us. It’s not just about donating proceeds – it’s about raising awareness and using our platform to highlight the incredible work these organisations do. We've donated to Friends of the Earth NI and PIPS Suicide Prevention Ireland. We're proud of what we've achieved and hope to continue growing our contributions."

"The main things we look for in the products we sell are quality, sustainability, ethical production, and whether the brand shares our commitment to social impact. Customers can choose from our pre-made gift boxes or customise their own through our ‘Build a Box’ feature. It's important to us to include a variety of businesses – from those with diverse backgrounds to those 91�㽶��ɫ��Ƶing different causes – so every box tells a bigger story about the brilliant makers and local businesses doing good work."

"Social enterprises often face additional challenges when accessing finance because there isn't always the same level of understanding or tailored 91�㽶��ɫ��Ƶ available. Securing funding can be harder while staying true to both commercial and social impact goals."

Support and funding

"My journey benefited from invaluable 91�㽶��ɫ��Ƶ provided by Work West and Social Enterprise NI, including mentoring and publicity. The council and the Housing Executive gave us small but important grants, which allowed us to move forward. Every bit of funding helped us grow steadily. I focus on slow and sustainable growth and am happy to maintain this pace."

"Other small business owners offered significant 91�㽶��ɫ��Ƶ. Those casual meet-ups, chats, and coffees have been crucial; I honestly don't think the business would be where it is now without them."

Success and growth

"Support networks and funding opportunities greatly contributed to the growth and success of Storybox."

"Initially, I only dreamed of Storybox's potential, never imagining a physical shop."

"Expanding from an online business to moving to Portview Trade Centre has opened up brilliant opportunities to collaborate with other local businesses on site. We now host at least five monthly workshops and pop-up events, from painting and cake decorating to cross-community crafts and book launches, to bring people together, while also showcasing products from Portview-based makers in our gift boxes."

"Having a physical shop has given customers the chance to see the products and meet the people behind the brand, which brings the Storybox story to life in a much more profound way. It’s also allowed us to offer a more personal experience and build stronger relationships with the local community. I’ve developed a close relationship with my suppliers, and I genuinely love sharing their stories with customers. The impact becomes real when you witness customers’ reactions."

"Our shop offers a welcoming, inclusive space. Local residents appreciate having a community hub on Newtownards Road. Supporting charities like PIPS Suicide Prevention Ireland encourages customers to share their personal experiences and how these charities have helped them."

Case Study
Rachel McIlgorm

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Starting and running a business as a disabled entrepreneur - The Mind Tribe UK

llandi — Fri, 10 Jan 2025 16:49:53 +0000

Starting and running a business as a disabled entrepreneur - The Mind Tribe UK llandi Fri, 10/01/2025 - 16:49

Starting a business: advice for people with a disability

In this guide:

The basics of starting a business

Simple steps to create a business plan, find customers and decide on a legal structure for your startup business
When starting up a new business, you need to consider a number of factors to ensure the best chance of success.

As well as your product or service, you will need to think about:

your business name - see choose the right name for your business

your business structure - see legal structures for businesses - an overview

your marketing strategy and how you will attract customers - see create your marketing strategy

how much money you need and how you will finance your business - see business financing options - an overview

For further information see step-by-step guide to starting a business.

Your business plan

Planning and thinking about your business is a necessary process to undertake before, during and after you start.

The headings in a business plan can be simply thought of as a checklist of questions you need to ask to reassure yourself that your venture will work. Writing the plan down is just as important because it helps to clarify your thinking and demonstrates your commitment to move forward. It also identifies where you intend to get to and how you intend to get there - see write a business plan: step-by-step.

Tax and legal issues for start-ups

Once you have decided to start a new business, you need to make sure that you have all of the legal formalities in place.

The following guidance can help:

legal structures for businesses - an overview

get started with business taxes

Finding and keeping your customers

When you start up your new business or become self-employed, you will need to have a clear understanding of what an ideal or typical customer looks like - see market research and market reports.
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Support for disabled entrepreneurs

Learn more about the 91�㽶��ɫ��Ƶ agencies and organisations available to help disabled entrepreneurs start a business
For many disabled people, starting a business is a great way to achieve more independence and to realise your full potential. Being your own boss gives you flexibility and the freedom to choose your own hours and working conditions.

After developing a business plan - and a marketing plan if appropriate - the next step is to research your market and seek advice from those with experience. See market research and market reports.

Understanding where you can get money and 91�㽶��ɫ��Ƶ at the earliest stage will help you develop your ideas. See business financing options - an overview.

Any new business will find the start-up process and the first few months of trading particularly challenging. For further guidance see:

step-by-step guide to starting a business

managing business finance during the start-up phase

Support is available to help you with the stages leading up to starting a new business and can even continue once you have set up your business. Support in Northern Ireland includes:

1. Enterprise Agencies

Enterprise Agency advisers are trained to help people with disabilities and can identify appropriate sources of expertise and additional 91�㽶��ɫ��Ƶ. Enterprise Northern Ireland provide a list of local enterprise agencies.

When meeting a business adviser, you may want to think about the following:

Why do you want to start a business?

What is your business idea?

What extra resources and 91�㽶��ɫ��Ƶ might you need as a disabled person running your own business?

2. Disability employment 91�㽶��ɫ��Ƶ and information

nidirect provides employment 91�㽶��ɫ��Ƶ information and details of assistance with training and finding work, including self-employment. Work Coaches are based in your local Jobs and Benefit Office or Job Centre.

They can advise on 91�㽶��ɫ��Ƶ specifically for disabled people and link into 91�㽶��ɫ��Ƶ provided by the Department for Communities Health and Work Support Branch and Work Psychology Services.

3. Disability organisations

Disability organisations also offer 91�㽶��ɫ��Ƶ to people with specific disabilities which may be helpful in considering self-employment. Your local Work Coaches in your local Jobs and Benefit Office or Job Centre will be able to direct you to your local disability organisation.

Links to disability organisations to monitor for 91�㽶��ɫ��Ƶ opportunities are included in business networks and 91�㽶��ɫ��Ƶ for disabled entrepreneurs.

From time to time, specialist agencies or disability sector organisations run workshops, training, or events aimed at the disabled business community and disabled people interested in self-employment.

You may also consider approaching more general 91�㽶��ɫ��Ƶ organisations such as:

King's Trust

Advantage NI

Young Enterprise Northern Ireland

The Stelios Philanthropic Foundation
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Starting a business when on benefits

Starting a business can have an impact on benefits you may receive, learn how you could be affected

If you are set on the idea of running your own business then the first step is careful preparation. Make sure you have planned exactly what you want to do and how to fund it. One of the barriers to self-employment that disabled people have identified is the potential impact on benefits.

Information for people on benefits

In the early stages of considering self-employment you might think about staying on benefits. The Department for Communities through local Jobs and Benefits offices can provide information on how starting your own business may impact on your benefits.

nidirect provide contact details for your local Jobs and Benefits Office/Job Centre.

The Work Coach (Department for Communities) can provide information on the different measures that can help you, depending on which benefits you are currently receiving. Speak to a Work Coach at your local Jobs and Benefits Office/Job Centre about the range of help and 91�㽶��ɫ��Ƶ including Travel to Interview Scheme, Job Grant and Return to Work Credit.

Permitted work

Under permitted work rules you can work for up to 16 hours per week and earn up to £131.50 per week without it impacting on benefits. You may be eligible to trade under the permitted work rules for 12 months giving you some time to decide if self-employment is for you.

nidirect provide information about Employment and Support Allowance and information about permitted work while claiming benefits. You can also contact the Employment and Support Allowance Centre on 0800 085 6318.

Working Tax Credit

Once you are ready to come off benefit and work for 16 hours or more, you can apply for Working Tax Credits. These are based on the hours you work and get paid for, or expect to be paid for. You can claim whether you are an employee or a self-employed person. If you have a disability and usually work 16 hours or more a week, you may be able to get extra Working Tax Credit.

Read nidirect's guidance on Working Tax Credits.

Universal Credit

If you are self-employed and claiming Universal Credit, you must report your self-employed earnings at the end of each monthly assessment period. To find more information, get in touch with your work coach. nidirect provides further information on what to do if you are self-employed while claiming Universal Credit.

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Finance for disabled entrepreneurs

Overview of the different funding options available for start-up businesses in Northern Ireland
Getting funding is a big challenge for everyone and there can be extra barriers to overcome for those with disabilities. Essential to raising finance is convincing investors that your business is sound. This means showing that your idea is worth investing in and that you have what it takes to run your own business successfully.

Before approaching a bank or investor make sure you have everything ready to show your idea in its best light - see how to tailor your business plan secure funding.

Credit rating

A bank is likely to run a check on your credit history before agreeing to give you a loan. If you are paying off debts or have had debts in the past, this may affect your options. Tell the bank about them when you apply for a business bank account and make arrangements to pay them off. A bank is more likely to consider your application if you can show that you're trying to overcome past problems.

Sources of finance and guidance

Banks, just like any other business that provides goods or services, are not allowed to discriminate against disabled people on the ground of disability, so make sure you know your rights beforehand. For example, a bank cannot charge more for Braille or audio information than it would charge for the same content in a standard format.

The Access to Work (NI) scheme provides grants to employers towards any extra disability related costs. Self-employed disabled people can also get financial assistance and advice on issues such as aids and adaptations, communication 91�㽶��ɫ��Ƶ, travel to work or a 91�㽶��ɫ��Ƶ worker. Nidirect provides further information on the Access to Work programme.

The Stelios Philanthropic Foundation, in partnership with the Leonard Cheshire run The Stelios Awards for Disabled Entrepreneurs in the UK. The awards provide cash prizes that can help disabled entrepreneurs with their business ventures. Find out more about the Stelios Disabled Entrepreneur Award.

Other sources of business finance

If you don't want to go down the route of traditional bank finance, there are other options available. For example, you could:

Use your own savings or personal borrowings to fund the business, particularly if you can't obtain finance or investment from external sources - see advantages and disadvantages of using your own money to start a business.

Borrow money from family or friends. However, you should carefully consider the risk that they could lose their money if your business fails - see financing from friends and family.

Aim to attract outside investors - eg by selling shares to business angels or venture capitalists. This can provide short-term finance without the need for repayment, and can also bring in expertise along with funding. However, it usually means giving up shares in your business, and investors may want some control over its management - see shares and shareholders and equity finance.

Qualify for a grant or government 91�㽶��ɫ��Ƶ. These can provide very cheap financing, and often come with business advice or subsidised consultancy. However, there is usually a lot of competition for grant schemes, and you will need to meet various criteria - depending on the scheme - see grants and government 91�㽶��ɫ��Ƶ.

Qualify for a government loan with Enterprise NI's Start-Up Loans scheme.

If you are finding it difficult to obtain bank finance, you could also consider commercial lenders - such as insurance companies and building societies. You may get a better deal - eg lower interest rates - and they are generally less restrictive.

You may also be able to raise funds through crowdfunding which raises finance by asking a large number of people each for a small amount of money to invest in your business - see crowdfunding.

For further information see business financing options - an overview.
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Starting a business: ongoing training

Training will 91�㽶��ɫ��Ƶ the development of a business, understand the importance of ongoing training
During and after setting up your business, it is important to keep your skills - and those of your staff - up-to-date and competitive. Training can be used to deal with the accessibility issues facing disabled people at work - and may give you greater awareness of the work-related technologies available for disabled people. Training can also be used to develop:

IT skills

financial skills

human resources

sales skills

Identify those areas in which you need to improve. Make a short list of possible courses and find out whether you might be eligible for any funding. Remember there are numerous courses available so do some research to find the one that suits you.

Training can help you to adopt a positive, open style of communication, and to develop a 'win-win' approach to work relations.

Find out about the 91�㽶��ɫ��Ƶ in training your staff.
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Business networks and 91�㽶��ɫ��Ƶ for disabled entrepreneurs

A list of organisations and networks that provide 91�㽶��ɫ��Ƶ for disabled entrepreneurs
As you begin to establish your business in the market place you will want to keep up to date with the latest industry developments and learn best practice from your peers. Organisations to monitor include:

Disability organisations

Action Mental Health

Cedar Foundation

The Clanrye Group

Disability Action

Leonard Cheshire

Mencap

Mindwise

NOW Group

Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB)

Royal National Institute for Deaf People (RNID)

Specialisterne NI

Stepping Stones

The Orchardville Society

Ulster Supported Employment Limited (USEL)

Other

Local Benefits Office/Job Centre

King's Trust

Business in the Community

Young Enterprise Northern Ireland

The Disabled Entrepreneurs Network
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Starting a business: advice for people with a disability

Running a business as an entrepreneur with a disability - Omagh Music Academy (video)

Claire Bowes discusses some of the 91�㽶��ɫ��Ƶ and advice available for disabled entrepreneurs to start and run a business

Claire Bowes, owner of Omagh Music Academy discusses the 91�㽶��ɫ��Ƶ and advice available to help budding entrepreneurs start their own business.

Claire lost her sight at the age of 15 and, with a lifelong passion for music, decided to start a business that offers a wide range of instrumental and singing lessons for people of all ages and abilities.

Here Claire explains how she used the 91�㽶��ɫ��Ƶ and advice available to help her create and run her business successfully.

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Starting a business: advice for people with a disability

Starting and running a business as a disabled entrepreneur - The Mind Tribe UK

Katie Matthews-Furphy, founder of The Mind Tribe UK, shares her experience of starting a social enterprise as a disabled entrepreneur.

The Mind Tribe UK, based in Northern Ireland, offers mental health and well-being training and enterprise 91�㽶��ɫ��Ƶ. Its strong focus is on inclusive entrepreneurship and cultivating a growth mindset.

The company founder, Katie Matthews-Furphy, is a multi-award-winning disabled entrepreneur and mental health advocate with experience of living with mental ill health. She leads the delivery of workshops, training programmes, mentoring sessions, and guest talks designed to foster resilience, self-confidence, empathy, a growth mindset, and personal empowerment. 

Katie shares her entrepreneurial journey, the challenges, and the valuable lessons she learned along the way. 

Using my strengths and learning new skills

"I founded The Mind Tribe UK in 2019 with a vision to create an inclusive space where individuals facing mental health challenges could access tailored guidance, resources, and training."

"My resilience, empathy, and ability to connect with people have been instrumental in shaping The Mind Tribe UK. As a strong advocate for growth mindset development, I integrate this philosophy into all aspects of our work."

"Adapting to new areas and acquiring new skills like marketing, financial management, and technology was crucial. However, recognising areas of need and seeking assistance is equally important. Since working with finances has never been my strength, enlisting the help of an accountant has proven to be a game-changer.”

Challenges and overcoming barriers

"I struggled to find financial 91�㽶��ɫ��Ƶ and advice specifically designed for disabled entrepreneurs. As a young, disabled female entrepreneur with a prior bankruptcy, I also lacked the financial history to qualify for many funding options.

"Starting with less than £100 demanded creative solutions and resourcefulness. Fortunately, I received invaluable guidance from mentors and peers within the entrepreneurial ecosystem who recognised my potential and offered encouragement. The peer 91�㽶��ɫ��Ƶ network in Northern Ireland is exceptional, fostering a strong sense of community within the business world."

"I prioritised sustainable growth over rapid expansion and recognised the critical importance of self-care for maintaining a healthy business. Managing my chronic autoimmune condition and mental illness requires careful planning and flexibility. I've adapted by implementing flexible schedules, leveraging remote work technologies, and incorporating buffer time into all deadlines. Recognising that some days may require adjustments, I've learned to accept that postponing or cancelling tasks may occasionally be necessary when navigating the demands of both my business and my health."

Building upon personal insights

"My journey with mental illness has empowered me to lead with empathy and prioritise well-being above all else. If we don't prioritise our well-being, we cannot effectively serve our clients or the business. Accepting my limitations has also taught me to be more relaxed, adaptable, and focused on what I can control, finding creative solutions to overcome obstacles."

"These personal experiences have become the cornerstone of The Mind Tribe UK. I sought to build a 91�㽶��ɫ��Ƶive community and offer specialised training for those feeling isolated by mental health challenges. I understand firsthand the profound impact 91�㽶��ɫ��Ƶ can have."

"My challenges have shaped my leadership style and service delivery, fostering empathy and compassion. They also inspired me to develop programmes emphasising resilience, mental well-being, and a growth mindset – essential skills for navigating the pressures of entrepreneurship. Ultimately, these experiences have fuelled my commitment to providing 91�㽶��ɫ��Ƶ tailored to individual needs, recognising the limitations of a one-size-fits-all approach."

Business successes

"I am proud of the awards I have received, including being named NI’s Young Entrepreneur of the Year in 2021 and 2022. These accolades validate the significant impact The Mind Tribe UK has had on mental health, well-being, and inclusive entrepreneurship." 

"My greatest success, however, is recovering from bankruptcy and rebuilding a thriving business I am passionate about. Today, I can enjoy the rewards of my hard work, including stability and exciting opportunities for future growth."

Vision for the future

"Having lived with mental illness and disability, I strive for The Mind Tribe UK as a leading force in reducing the stigma surrounding mental health and creating an inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem. I aim to provide tailored 91�㽶��ɫ��Ƶ for disabled entrepreneurs and underrepresented groups, ensuring everyone has the opportunity to reach their full potential."

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How to set up a limited company

llandi — Fri, 06 Dec 2024 13:54:55 +0000

How to set up a limited company llandi Fri, 06/12/2024 - 13:54

Set up a limited company

In this guide:

How to set up a limited company

To set up a private limited company, register with Companies House, providing a name, address, director, shareholder details, SIC code, and control information.
To set up a private limited company you need to register with Companies House. This is known as 'incorporation'.

You'll need:

a suitable company name

an address for the company

at least one director

details of the company's shares - you need at least one shareholder

to check what your SIC code is - this identifies what your company does

You'll also need:

shareholders to agree to create the company and the written rules (known as 'memorandum and articles of association')

details of people with significant control over your company, for example anyone with more than 25 per cent shares or voting rights
Actions

Register your limited company

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Name your limited company

What you can and cannot name your company in the UK, including specific words you need permission to use
You must choose a name for your business if you're setting up a private limited company.

There are different rules for business partnerships and sole traders - see naming your partnership and naming your business as a sole trader.

Your name can't be the same as another registered company's name. If your name is too similar to another company's name you may have to change it if someone makes a complaint.

Your name must usually end in either 'Limited' or 'Ltd'.

Check the Companies House register.

'Same as' company names

'Same as' names includes those where the only difference to an existing name is:

certain punctuation

certain special characters, for example the 'plus' sign

a word or character that's similar in appearance or meaning to another from the existing name

a word or character used commonly in UK company names

For example, 'Hands UK Ltd' and 'Hand's Ltd' are the same as 'Hands Ltd'.

You can only register a 'same as' name if:

your company is part of the same group as the company or Limited Liability Partnership (LLP) with the existing name

you have written confirmation that the company or LLP has no objection to your new name

GOV.UK provides further guidance on requirements when naming your company.

'Too like' company names

You may have to change your name if someone complains and Companies House agrees it's 'too like' a name registered before yours.

For example, 'Easy Electrics For You Ltd' is the same as 'EZ Electrix 4U Ltd'

Companies House will contact you if they think your name is too like another - and tell you what to do.

Other rules for company names

Your company name can't be offensive.

Your name also can't contain a 'sensitive' word or expression, or suggest a connection with government or local authorities, unless you get permission.

For example, to use 'Accredited' in your company's name, you need permission from the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS).

GOV.UK outlines which words you need permission to use, and who from.

Trading names

You can trade using a different name to your registered name. This is known as a 'business name'.

Business names must not:

be the same as an existing trade mark

include 'limited', 'Ltd', 'limited liability partnership, 'LLP', 'public limited company' or 'plc'

contain a 'sensitive' word or expression unless you get permission

You'll need to register your name as a trade mark if you want to stop people from trading under your business name.

You can't use another company's trade mark as your business name.

Displaying your company name

There are rules that you must follow when displaying your name on signs, stationery, promotional material and invoices. For example, you must display a sign showing your company name at your registered company address and wherever your business operates. If you're running your business from home, you don't need to display a sign there.

Know the rules you must follow on displaying your company name.

When you don't have to use 'limited' in your company name

You don't have to use 'limited' in your name if your company is a registered charity or limited by guarantee and your articles of association say your company:

promotes or regulates commerce, art, science, education, religion, charity or any profession

can't pay its shareholders, for example through dividends

requires each shareholder to contribute to company assets if it's wound up during their membership, or within a year of them stopping being a shareholder
Actions

Check the Companies House register

GOV.UK guidance on requirements when naming your company

GOV.UK guidance on words you need permission to use in your company name

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Naming your business partnership

Naming your business as a sole trader

How to register a trade mark

Signs, stationery and promotional material

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Company addresses

What types of addresses can be used as your registered company address including your home address or a PO Box
Your registered office address is where official communications will be sent, for example letters from Companies House.

The address must be:

a physical address in the UK

in the same country your company is registered in, for example a company registered in Northern Ireland must have a registered office address in Northern Ireland

You can use a PO Box. You must include a physical address and postcode.

You can use your home address or the address of the person who will manage your Corporation Tax.

Your company address will be publicly available on the online register.
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Appoint directors and a company secretary

Rules for appointing a company director and a company secretary and an overview of their legal responsibilities
Your company must have at least one director. Directors are legally responsible for running the company and making sure company accounts and reports are properly prepared.

A director must be 16 or over and not be disqualified from being a director.

Directors don't have to live in the UK but companies must have a UK registered office address.

Directors' names and addresses are publicly available from Companies House. You can stop your home address from appearing on the register if you or your family are at risk of abuse or harm because of your company's work.

Read further guidance on directors' responsibilities.

Appointing company secretaries

You don't need a company secretary for a private limited company. Some companies use them to take on some of the director's responsibilities.

The company secretary can be a director but can't be:

the company's auditor

an 'undischarged bankrupt' - unless they have permission from the court

The restrictions placed on a person when they're made bankrupt usually end when they're free from their debts (known as 'discharged'). You can check if someone has been discharged using the Insolvency Register.

Even if you have a company secretary, the directors are legally responsible for the company.
Actions

Stop your address from appearing on the Companies House register

Check if someone has been discharged using the Insolvency Register

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Shares and shareholders

Working out shares, issuing shares and setting prescribed particulars for shareholders of your limited company
Most limited companies are 'limited by shares'. This means they're owned by shareholders, who have certain rights. For example, directors may need shareholders to vote and agree changes to the company.

Work out your shares

A company limited by shares must have at least one shareholder, who can be a director. If you're the only shareholder, you'll own 100 per cent of the company. There's no maximum number of shareholders.

The price of an individual share can be any value. Shareholders will need to pay for their shares in full if the company has to shut down. You can choose a low share value (for example, £1) to limit the shareholders' liability to a reasonable amount.

Issuing your initial shares

When you register a company you need to provide information about the shares (known as a 'statement of capital'). This includes:

the number of shares of each type the company has and their total value - known as the company's 'share capital'

the names and addresses of all shareholders - known as 'subscribers' or 'members'

For example, a company that issues 500 shares at £1 each has a share capital of £500.

Prescribed particulars

You also need to include information about what rights each type of share (known as 'class') gives the shareholder. This information is known as 'prescribed particulars' and must include:

what share of dividends they get

whether they can exchange ('redeem') their shares for money

whether they can vote on certain company matters

how many votes they get

For further information see company shares and shareholders.
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Company shares and shareholders

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Memorandum and articles of association

You must have a memorandum and articles of association in order to register a limited company in the UK
When you register your company you need:

a memorandum of association - a legal statement signed by all initial shareholders agreeing to form the company

articles of association - written rules about running the company agreed by the shareholders, directors and the company secretary

Memorandum of association

You can use the Companies House memorandum of association template. You can't update the memorandum once the company has been registered.

Articles of association

You can use standard articles (known as 'model articles').

You can write your own articles but if you do, you can't register your company online.

Community interest companies

You can't use limited company model articles if you're setting up your legal structure as a community interest company (CIC) - see choose the right structure for your social enterprise.

Use the CIC regulator's model constitutions instead.
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Companies House memorandum of association template

GOV.UK guidance on model articles

CIC regulator’s model constitutions

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Register your limited company

How to register a company online, by post, using software or appointing someone else to deal with HMRC on your behalf
You can register your company if you have everything you need to set up.

Register your company online

You can register online if your company is limited by shares and uses standard articles of association ('model articles').

It costs £50 and can be paid by debit or credit card. Your company is usually registered within 24 hours.

Register now.

Register your company by post

You can register by post using form IN01.

Postal applications take eight to ten days and cost £71 (paid by cheque made out to 'Companies House').

Send your application to the address on the form.

Other ways to register your company

You can also register your company:

using an agent

using third-party software.

After you've registered your company

Once the company is registered you'll get a 'certificate of incorporation'. This confirms the company legally exists and shows the company number and date of formation.

You'll also need to register for Corporation Tax within three months of starting to do business.
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Register your limited company

Register your limited company by post with form IN01

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Register for Corporation Tax

How to register for Corporation Tax including information you need to provide and how to get a Unique Taxpayer Reference
After you've registered your company with Companies House, you'll need to register it for Corporation Tax.

You'll need to do this within three months of starting to do business. This includes buying, selling, advertising, renting a property and employing someone. You may get a penalty if you register late.

If you are unsure of what counts as starting to do business, see working for yourself.

How to register for Corporation Tax

You'll need your company's 10-digit Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR) before you register for Corporation Tax online with HMRC.

This is posted to your company address by HMRC, usually within a few days of the company being registered with Companies House (incorporated).

Call the HMRC helpline on Tel: 0300 200 3410 if you didn't get a UTR after registering your company.

Information you'll need to register for Corporation Tax

When registering, you'll need to tell HMRC:

your company's registration number

the date you started to do business (your company's first accounting period will start from this date)

the date your annual accounts are made up to

What happens after registering for Corporation Tax

HMRC will tell you the deadline for paying Corporation Tax.

You'll need to file a Company Tax Return, even if you make a loss or have no Corporation Tax to pay - see GOV.UK information on Company Tax Returns.

Finding your UTR in future

Your 10-digit UTR will be on all letters from HMRC and within HMRC online services. You need it:

if you contact HMRC about Corporation Tax

to send your Company Tax Return using commercial software
Actions

Register for Corporation Tax with HMRC

Send your Company Tax Return using commercial software

HMRC online services

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Checklist: set up a limited company

A useful list of things you need to do to when setting up a limited company and organisations you need to contact
To set up a limited company there are several things you must do. Make sure that you:

Appoint a director, who will be legally responsible for running the company and making sure company accounts and reports are properly prepared - see appoint directors and a company secretary.

Register your business with Companies House - see starting a company or partnership.

Register for Corporation Tax within three months of starting to do business - see understand corporation tax.

Obtain any planning permission that you may need from your local council - find your local council in Northern Ireland.

Obtain any licences or permits that you may need - use the licence finder tool to find out what licences or permits your business may require.

Contact Land and Property Services to find out whether you need to pay business rates - see business rates: the basics.

Contact HMRC to register for VAT if you expect to have turnover of more than £85,000 a year - see registering for VAT.

Register with HMRC for PAYE (Pay As You Earn) if you employ staff - see registering and getting started with PAYE.

Register with HMRC if you are a contractor or subcontractor in the construction industry - see contractors and the Construction Industry Scheme.

Set up a financial record-keeping system - see set up a basic record-keeping system.

Put your name on all your business stationery, including letters, invoices, receipts and cheques - see name your business.

Set terms and conditions for your customers, such as when your invoices are to be paid - see ensure customers pay you on time.

Ensure all business insurance requirements are in place - see business insurance: the basics.

It's worth remembering that this is just a start. As you continue in business, you may have other legal and tax issues to bear in mind.
Actions

Register your limited company

Also on this site

Register for Corporation Tax

Checklist: set up as a sole trader

Checklist: set up a business partnership

Content category

Starting a business
Source URL
/content/checklist-set-limited-company

Links

How to classify business expenses

llandi — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 10:55:02 +0000

How to classify business expenses llandi Mon, 22/07/2024 - 11:55

Expenses if you're self-employed

In this guide:

How to classify business expenses
How to categorise and claim expenses costs as allowable expenses or capital allowances to get the most tax benefits.
Understanding the categories of allowable expenses and capital allowances is important for effective financial management.

Allowable expenses cover many operational costs, such as office supplies, travel, and staff salaries. You can use capital allowances for significant purchases. These include equipment and vehicles used in your business. Categorise and claim these costs to get the most tax benefits.

If you work from home specific rules apply.

Costs you can claim as allowable expenses

These include:

office costs, eg stationery or phone bills

travel costs, eg fuel, parking, train or bus fares

clothing expenses, eg uniforms

staff costs, eg salaries or subcontractor costs

things you buy to sell on, eg stock or raw materials

financial costs, eg insurance or bank charges

costs of your business premises, eg heating, lighting, business rates

advertising or marketing, eg website costs

Contact the Self Assessment helpline if you're not sure whether a business cost is an allowable expense.

Costs you can claim as capital allowances

If you use traditional accounting, claim capital allowances when you buy something you keep to use in your business, for example:

equipment

machinery

business vehicles, eg cars, vans, lorries

If you use cash basis

If you use cash basis accounting and buy a car for your business, you can claim this as a capital allowance. However, all other items you buy and keep for your business should be claimed as allowable expenses in the normal way.

If you use something for both business and personal reasons

You can only claim allowable expenses for the business costs. For example, your mobile phone bills for the year total £200. Of this, you spend £130 on personal calls and £70 on business. You can claim for £70 of business expenses.

If you work from home

You may be able to claim a proportion of your costs for things like:

heating

electricity

rates

mortgage interest or rent

internet and telephone use

You'll need to find a reasonable method of dividing your costs. For example, you could do it by the number of rooms you use for business or the amount of time you work from home.

Simplified expenses

You can avoid using complex calculations to work out your business expenses by using simplified expenses. Simplified expenses are flat rates that can be used for:

vehicles

working from home

living on your business premises
Content category

Starting a business
Source URL
/content/how-classify-business-expenses

Links
Office, property and equipment expenses

How to claim business expenses for your office, property and equipment and an overview of eligible items.
Claim items you'd normally use for less than two years as allowable expenses, for example:

stationery

rent, rates, power and insurance costs

For equipment you keep to use in your business, for example computers or printers, claim:

allowable expenses if you use cash basis accounting

capital allowances if you use traditional accounting

See guidance on cash basis acounting and capital allowances.

You can't claim for any non-business use of premises, phones or other office resources.

Stationery

You can claim expenses for:

phone, mobile, fax and internet bills

postage

stationery

printing

printer ink and cartridges

computer software your business uses for less than two years

computer software if your business makes regular payments to renew the license (even if you use it for more than two years)

Claim other software for your business as capital allowances, unless you use cash basis.

Rents, rates, power and insurance costs

You can claim expenses for:

rent for business premises

business and water rates

utility bills

property insurance

security

using your home as an office (only the part that's used for business)

Business premises

You can't claim expenses or allowances for buying building premises.

Claim expenses for repairs and maintenance of business premises and equipment.

For alterations to install or replace equipment, claim:

allowable expenses if you use cash basis accounting

capital allowances if you use traditional accounting

You can also claim capital allowances for some integral parts of a building, for example water heating systems.
Content category

Starting a business
Source URL
/content/office-property-and-equipment-expenses

Links
Car, van and travel expenses

What you can claim as business expenses for your company car, van and travel expenses and what you can’t claim for.
You can claim allowable business expenses for:

vehicle insurance

repairs and servicing

fuel

parking

hire charges

vehicle licence fees

breakdown cover

train, bus, air and taxi fares

hotel rooms

meals on overnight business trips

You can't claim for:

non-business driving or travel costs

fines

travel between home and work

You may be able to calculate your car, van or motorcycle expenses using a flat rate (known as simplified expenses) for mileage instead of the actual costs of buying and running your vehicle.

Buying vehicles

If you use traditional accounting and buy a vehicle for your business, you can claim this as a capital allowance.

If you use cash basis accounting and buy a car for your business, claim this as a capital allowance as long as you're not using simplified expenses.

For all other types of vehicles, claim them as allowable expenses.
Content category

Starting a business
Source URL
/content/car-van-and-travel-expenses

Links
Clothing expenses

What clothing items are classed as allowable business expenses that you can claim as expenses for your business.
You can claim allowable business expenses for:

uniforms

protective clothing needed for your work

costumes for actors or entertainers

You can't claim for everyday clothing (even if you wear it for work).
Content category

Starting a business
Source URL
/content/clothing-expenses

Links
Staff expenses

The types of allowable business expenses which you can claim for staff, and what you can't claim for.
You can claim allowable business expenses for:

employee and staff salaries

bonuses

pensions

benefits

agency fees

subcontractors

employer's National Insurance

You can't claim for carers or domestic help, eg nannies.
Content category

Starting a business
Source URL
/content/staff-expenses

Links
Reselling goods expenses

Details of some allowable business expenses self-employed persons can claim for when reselling goods.
You can claim allowable business expenses for:

goods for resale (stock)

raw materials

direct costs from producing goods

You can't claim for:

any goods or materials bought for private use

depreciation of equipment
Also on this site

Understanding Self Assessment and your tax return

Record-keeping for Self Assessment

Content category

Starting a business
Source URL
/content/reselling-goods-expenses

Links
Marketing, entertainment and subscriptions expenses

What types of marketing, entertainment and subscriptions your business can claim as business expenses.
You can claim allowable business expenses for:

advertising in newspapers or directories

bulk mail advertising (mailshots)

free samples

website costs

You can't claim for:

entertaining clients, suppliers and customers

event hospitality

Subscriptions

You can claim for:

trade or professional journals

trade body or professional organisation membership if related to your business

You can't claim for:

payments to political parties

gym membership fees

donations to charity - but you may be able to claim for sponsorship payments
Content category

Starting a business
Source URL
/content/marketing-entertainment-and-subscriptions-expenses

Links
Legal and financial costs expenses

What you can claim for accountancy, legal and other professional fees and information on how to write off bad debts.
Accountancy, legal and other professional fees can count as allowable business expenses.

You can claim costs for:

hiring of accountants, solicitors, surveyors and architects for business reasons

professional indemnity insurance premiums

You can't claim for:

legal costs of buying property and machinery - if you use traditional accounting, claim for these costs as capital allowances

fines for breaking the law

Bank, credit card and other financial charges

You can claim business costs for:

bank, overdraft and credit card charges

interest on bank and business loans

hire purchase interest

leasing payments

alternative finance payments, eg Islamic finance

If you're using cash basis accounting you can only claim up to £500 in interest and bank charges.

You can't claim for repayments of loans, overdrafts or finance arrangements.

Insurance policies

You can claim for any insurance policy for your business, eg public liability insurance.

When your customer doesn't pay you

If you're using traditional accounting, you can claim for amounts of money you include in your turnover but won't ever receive ('bad debts'). However, you can only write off these debts if you're sure they won't be recovered from your customer in the future.

You can't claim for:

debts not included in turnover

debts related to the disposal of fixed assets, eg land, buildings, machinery

bad debts that aren't properly calculated, eg you can't just estimate that your debts are equal to five per cent of your turnover

Bad debts can't be claimed if you use cash basis accounting because you've not received the money from your debtors. With cash basis, you only record income on your return that you've actually received.
Content category

Starting a business
Source URL
/content/legal-and-financial-costs-expenses

Links
How to claim business expenses

How to keep on top of your business records in order to claim your business allowable expenses with HMRC.

Keep records of all your business expenses as proof of your costs. GOV.UK provides information on business records if you're self-employed.

Add up all your allowable expenses for the tax year and put the total amount on your Self Assessment tax return. GOV.UK provides further guidance on Self Assessment tax return.

You don't need to send in proof of expenses when you submit your tax return. But you should keep proof and records so you can show them to HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) if asked.

You must make sure your records are accurate.

Content category

Starting a business

Source URL
/content/how-claim-business-expenses

Links

Set up a charity

smcsorley — Wed, 08 Nov 2023 16:42:40 +0000

Set up a charity smcsorley Wed, 08/11/2023 - 16:42

Introduction

Annual reports for your charity

smcsorley — Wed, 08 Nov 2023 16:38:53 +0000

Annual reports for your charity smcsorley Wed, 08/11/2023 - 16:38

Set up a charity

In this guide:

Set up a charity: Ensure your charity has a charitable purpose

Your charity must fall under one of the 12 descriptions of charitable purposes.
To be a charity in Northern Ireland, your organisations must have a charitable purpose that is for public benefit.

The 12 descriptions of charitable purposes, under the Charities Act (Northern Ireland) 2008, are:

the prevention or relief of poverty

the advancement of education

the advancement of religion

the advancement of health or the saving of lives

the advancement of citizenship or community development

the advancement of the arts, culture, heritage or science

the advancement of amateur sport

the advancement of human rights, conflict resolution or reconciliation or the promotion of religious or racial harmony or equality and diversity

the advancement of environmental protection or improvement

the relief of those in need by reason of youth, age, ill-health, disability, financial hardship or other disadvantage

the advancement of animal welfare

any other charitable purpose

If any of your purposes are outside this list, then your organisation cannot be a charity in Northern Ireland.

Public benefit rules for charities

Your charity’s ‘purpose’ is what it is set up to achieve. For an organisation to be a charity, each of its purposes must be for the public benefit. The Charity Commission for Northern Ireland has produced statutory guidance on the public benefit requirement.
Actions

The Charity Commission for Northern Ireland public benefit requirement

Content category

Starting a business
Source URL
/content/set-charity-ensure-your-charity-has-charitable-purpose

Links
Choose a structure for your charity

Unincorporated association, charitable company or charitable trust – find the right legal structure for your charity and understand the differences.
To set up a new charity, you must decide what sort of legal structure it will have.

There are three main types of charity structures:

unincorporated association

charitable company

charitable trust

Your charity structure is defined by its governing document, the legal document that creates the charity and explains how it should be run. See create a governing document for your charity.

The type of structure you choose affects how your charity will operate, such as:

who will run it and whether it will have a wider membership

whether it can enter contracts or employ staff in its own name

whether the trustees will be personally liable for what the charity does

Unincorporated association

Unincorporated associations can be easier to set up than other forms of charity. You may decide to use this structure if you are aiming to create a small charity with more than one charitable purpose.

Unincorporated associations do not have a separate legal identity, which means they can’t hold land or investments in their own name.

The charity trustees have personal legal responsibility for what the charity does. If you decide to set up this type of charity, it would be a good idea to seek legal advice about your liabilities.

Charitable company

A charitable company can own land and enter contracts in its own name.

Charitable companies also have limited liability for debts or lawsuits. This means that their company members are usually only liable for a limited amount of money that is set out in their governing document. See create a governing document for your charity.

Charity trustees will still be liable for losses due to fraud or intentional wrongdoing.

Charities that decide to be companies may:

be large

have employees

enter commercial contracts

own freehold or leasehold land, or other property

A charitable company must comply with the Companies Act 2006. Companies must register with the Charity Commission for Northern Ireland and with Companies House.

Charitable trust

Charitable trusts are usually set up with a specific sum of money and a group of people who become the trustees.

You might use this structure if your charity:

will only make grants to individuals or organisations

will be run by a small group of people

will not have a membership

will not employ staff or enter into contracts

Like unincorporated associations, charitable trusts don’t have a separate legal identity, which means they can’t hold land or investments in their own name. This means that the charity trustees share personal legal responsibility for the trust.

It may be valuable to seek legal advice when setting up your charity – see choose a solicitor for your business.
Content category

Starting a business
Source URL
/content/choose-structure-your-charity

Links
Find trustees for your charity

Who are charity trustees, and why are they essential to your charity's success? Learn their roles, responsibilities, and how to recruit them.
Trustees are the people who control a charity and ensure that the proper procedures and policies are in place to meet its charitable purpose.

It is important for any charity to have trustees with the skills, knowledge, and experience that the charity needs. Trustee skills can range in nature from financial or marketing skills to fundraising skills and links with relevant communities or stakeholders.

Trustees play an essential role in the governance of charities. They also have a lot to contribute to their success. They can:

help promote communication with the communities that a charity is targeting

bring valuable professional, business, and legal experience to charities

help to ensure that charities are well-managed through the appointment of senior staff

The Charity Commission for Northern Ireland recommends that each charity has a minimum of three charity trustees. If a dispute arises within the charity, there can always be a deciding vote.

How to find trustees for your charity

There are several ways that trustee boards can recruit new trustees. Personal recommendation and word of mouth is a popular option. Social media, such as LinkedIn, can also help promote the trustee role, in addition to free notices on local websites, notice boards or newsletters.

Further 91�㽶��ɫ��Ƶ is available from the following organisations:

NICVA (Northern Ireland Council for Voluntary Action) provides further information on trustees and delivers regular training for trustees – find out more.

Volunteer Now has a members directory of volunteers and provides training and promotion of volunteering opportunities – find out more.

Community NI helps voluntary, community and social enterprises to create a page providing information about their organisation and the services they provide – this includes posts about news, events, jobs, and opportunities. Find out more.

Some people are disqualified by law from acting as charity trustees – section 86 of the Charities Act (Northern Ireland) 2008 provides further information on the disqualifications.

The Charity Commission for Northern Ireland has further information on trusteeship and recruiting new trustees.
Also on this site

Social enterprise and co-operative 91�㽶��ɫ��Ƶ

Content category

Starting a business
Source URL
/content/find-trustees-your-charity

Links
Choose a name for your charity

How to find the right name for your charity with tips on branding, naming rules, and registering with the Charity Commission for Northern Ireland.
Your charity name is central to your brand and influences how the public recognises you.

When you are choosing a name for your charity, you should:

be creative and choose a unique name that people will remember when they want to make a donation or volunteer

avoid words that may be misleading or cause offence

keep it simple - pick a name that is easy to say and easy to spell to ensure that customers can recommend you and find you online

be aware of intellectual property rights and check that the name you want to use is available – check the Charity Commission for Northern Ireland’s register of charities

For further information and tips see choose the right name for your business.

Working or alternative charity name

Some charities can have more than one name – a main name and a working name. For example, Comic Relief is a working name for Charity Projects.

When you apply to register your charity with the Charity Commission for Northern Ireland, ensure that you include any alternative, abbreviated or working names.

Can the Charity Commission for Northern Ireland instruct a charity to change its name?

Under certain circumstances, the Charity Commission for Northern Ireland can request or direct a charity to change its name. For example, if the name is the same or is too similar to another charity or is likely to mislead the public on the nature of the charity.

The Charity Commission for Northern Ireland provides further information on choosing your charity’s name.
Also on this site

Choose the right name for your business

Content category

Starting a business
Source URL
/content/choose-name-your-charity

Links
Create a governing document for your charity

How to create a governing document for your charity, including required details, document types and templates.
You must create a governing document that explains how your charity is run.

Your governing document lets trustees and other interested parties find out:

your charity’s purpose

who runs it and how they run it

how trustees will be appointed

rules about trustees’ expenses

rules about payments to trustees

how to close the charity

The governing document should also outline procedures for meetings, voting and finances.

There are a few different types of governing documents, including:

a constitution for an association

articles of association for a company

rules for an Industrial and Provident Society

a trust deed for a trust

a will for a will trust

Governing document templates

The Charity Commission for Northern Ireland provides model governing documents. Charities can use the templates as a starting point and adapt them to meet their organisation’s specific requirements.
Content category

Starting a business
Source URL
/content/create-governing-document-your-charity

Links
Register your charity

How to register your charity in Northern Ireland.
The Charity Commission for Northern Ireland is the independent regulator of charities in Northern Ireland.

An organisation must apply for registration as a charity in Northern Ireland if it:

has exclusively charitable purposes

is governed by the law of Northern Ireland

has control and direction over its governance and resources<

The Commission manages the registration process by calling charities to apply in batches. In order to be called forward to register, new charities must make the Commission aware of their existence. You can do this by filing an expression of intent form.

Charities registered with the Commission must also comply with a number of legal responsibilities, including reporting to the Commission on their activities, governance and finances on an annual basis. See annual reports for your charity.

The Charity Commission for Northern Ireland provides further information on registering a new charity.
Content category

Starting a business
Source URL
/content/register-your-charity

Links
Annual reports for your charity

You must report your charity’s finances, resources and activities on an annual basis.
Once you have registered your charity with the Charity Commission for Northern Ireland, you are legally required to report your charity’s finances, resources and activities.

Registered charities must submit a report through the annual reporting programme. It must include the charity's:

accounts

trustees’ annual report

report from independent examiner/auditor (if required)

Usually, registered charities must submit an annual monitoring return for their first full financial year following their registration date. However, following the Charities Act (Northern Ireland) 2022, the annual reporting rules for some charities have changed.

The Act created differing annual reporting requirements for charities. They vary for those registered before and after May 2019.

For further information, see the Charity Commission’s guidance on annual reporting by charities – when you must submit your charity’s accounts and reports.
Content category

Starting a business
Source URL
/content/annual-reports-your-charity

Links

Register your charity

smcsorley — Wed, 08 Nov 2023 16:34:13 +0000

Set up a charity

In this guide:

Set up a charity: Ensure your charity has a charitable purpose

Your charity must fall under one of the 12 descriptions of charitable purposes.
To be a charity in Northern Ireland, your organisations must have a charitable purpose that is for public benefit.

The 12 descriptions of charitable purposes, under the Charities Act (Northern Ireland) 2008, are:

the prevention or relief of poverty

the advancement of education

the advancement of religion

the advancement of health or the saving of lives

the advancement of citizenship or community development

the advancement of the arts, culture, heritage or science

the advancement of amateur sport

the advancement of human rights, conflict resolution or reconciliation or the promotion of religious or racial harmony or equality and diversity

the advancement of environmental protection or improvement

the relief of those in need by reason of youth, age, ill-health, disability, financial hardship or other disadvantage

the advancement of animal welfare

any other charitable purpose

If any of your purposes are outside this list, then your organisation cannot be a charity in Northern Ireland.

Public benefit rules for charities

Your charity’s ‘purpose’ is what it is set up to achieve. For an organisation to be a charity, each of its purposes must be for the public benefit. The Charity Commission for Northern Ireland has produced statutory guidance on the public benefit requirement.
Actions

The Charity Commission for Northern Ireland public benefit requirement

Content category

Starting a business
Source URL
/content/set-charity-ensure-your-charity-has-charitable-purpose

Links
Choose a structure for your charity

Unincorporated association, charitable company or charitable trust – find the right legal structure for your charity and understand the differences.
To set up a new charity, you must decide what sort of legal structure it will have.

There are three main types of charity structures:

unincorporated association

charitable company

charitable trust

Your charity structure is defined by its governing document, the legal document that creates the charity and explains how it should be run. See create a governing document for your charity.

The type of structure you choose affects how your charity will operate, such as:

who will run it and whether it will have a wider membership

whether it can enter contracts or employ staff in its own name

whether the trustees will be personally liable for what the charity does

Unincorporated association

Unincorporated associations can be easier to set up than other forms of charity. You may decide to use this structure if you are aiming to create a small charity with more than one charitable purpose.

Unincorporated associations do not have a separate legal identity, which means they can’t hold land or investments in their own name.

The charity trustees have personal legal responsibility for what the charity does. If you decide to set up this type of charity, it would be a good idea to seek legal advice about your liabilities.

Charitable company

A charitable company can own land and enter contracts in its own name.

Charitable companies also have limited liability for debts or lawsuits. This means that their company members are usually only liable for a limited amount of money that is set out in their governing document. See create a governing document for your charity.

Charity trustees will still be liable for losses due to fraud or intentional wrongdoing.

Charities that decide to be companies may:

be large

have employees

enter commercial contracts

own freehold or leasehold land, or other property

A charitable company must comply with the Companies Act 2006. Companies must register with the Charity Commission for Northern Ireland and with Companies House.

Charitable trust

Charitable trusts are usually set up with a specific sum of money and a group of people who become the trustees.

You might use this structure if your charity:

will only make grants to individuals or organisations

will be run by a small group of people

will not have a membership

will not employ staff or enter into contracts

Like unincorporated associations, charitable trusts don’t have a separate legal identity, which means they can’t hold land or investments in their own name. This means that the charity trustees share personal legal responsibility for the trust.

It may be valuable to seek legal advice when setting up your charity – see choose a solicitor for your business.
Content category

Starting a business
Source URL
/content/choose-structure-your-charity

Links
Find trustees for your charity

Who are charity trustees, and why are they essential to your charity's success? Learn their roles, responsibilities, and how to recruit them.
Trustees are the people who control a charity and ensure that the proper procedures and policies are in place to meet its charitable purpose.

It is important for any charity to have trustees with the skills, knowledge, and experience that the charity needs. Trustee skills can range in nature from financial or marketing skills to fundraising skills and links with relevant communities or stakeholders.

Trustees play an essential role in the governance of charities. They also have a lot to contribute to their success. They can:

help promote communication with the communities that a charity is targeting

bring valuable professional, business, and legal experience to charities

help to ensure that charities are well-managed through the appointment of senior staff

The Charity Commission for Northern Ireland recommends that each charity has a minimum of three charity trustees. If a dispute arises within the charity, there can always be a deciding vote.

How to find trustees for your charity

There are several ways that trustee boards can recruit new trustees. Personal recommendation and word of mouth is a popular option. Social media, such as LinkedIn, can also help promote the trustee role, in addition to free notices on local websites, notice boards or newsletters.

Further 91�㽶��ɫ��Ƶ is available from the following organisations:

NICVA (Northern Ireland Council for Voluntary Action) provides further information on trustees and delivers regular training for trustees – find out more.

Volunteer Now has a members directory of volunteers and provides training and promotion of volunteering opportunities – find out more.

Community NI helps voluntary, community and social enterprises to create a page providing information about their organisation and the services they provide – this includes posts about news, events, jobs, and opportunities. Find out more.

Some people are disqualified by law from acting as charity trustees – section 86 of the Charities Act (Northern Ireland) 2008 provides further information on the disqualifications.

The Charity Commission for Northern Ireland has further information on trusteeship and recruiting new trustees.
Also on this site

Social enterprise and co-operative 91�㽶��ɫ��Ƶ

Content category

Starting a business
Source URL
/content/find-trustees-your-charity

Links
Choose a name for your charity

How to find the right name for your charity with tips on branding, naming rules, and registering with the Charity Commission for Northern Ireland.
Your charity name is central to your brand and influences how the public recognises you.

When you are choosing a name for your charity, you should:

be creative and choose a unique name that people will remember when they want to make a donation or volunteer

avoid words that may be misleading or cause offence

keep it simple - pick a name that is easy to say and easy to spell to ensure that customers can recommend you and find you online

be aware of intellectual property rights and check that the name you want to use is available – check the Charity Commission for Northern Ireland’s register of charities

For further information and tips see choose the right name for your business.

Working or alternative charity name

Some charities can have more than one name – a main name and a working name. For example, Comic Relief is a working name for Charity Projects.

When you apply to register your charity with the Charity Commission for Northern Ireland, ensure that you include any alternative, abbreviated or working names.

Can the Charity Commission for Northern Ireland instruct a charity to change its name?

Under certain circumstances, the Charity Commission for Northern Ireland can request or direct a charity to change its name. For example, if the name is the same or is too similar to another charity or is likely to mislead the public on the nature of the charity.

The Charity Commission for Northern Ireland provides further information on choosing your charity’s name.
Also on this site

Choose the right name for your business

Content category

Starting a business
Source URL
/content/choose-name-your-charity

Links
Create a governing document for your charity

How to create a governing document for your charity, including required details, document types and templates.
You must create a governing document that explains how your charity is run.

Your governing document lets trustees and other interested parties find out:

your charity’s purpose

who runs it and how they run it

how trustees will be appointed

rules about trustees’ expenses

rules about payments to trustees

how to close the charity

The governing document should also outline procedures for meetings, voting and finances.

There are a few different types of governing documents, including:

a constitution for an association

articles of association for a company

rules for an Industrial and Provident Society

a trust deed for a trust

a will for a will trust

Governing document templates

The Charity Commission for Northern Ireland provides model governing documents. Charities can use the templates as a starting point and adapt them to meet their organisation’s specific requirements.
Content category

Starting a business
Source URL
/content/create-governing-document-your-charity

Links
Register your charity

How to register your charity in Northern Ireland.
The Charity Commission for Northern Ireland is the independent regulator of charities in Northern Ireland.

An organisation must apply for registration as a charity in Northern Ireland if it:

has exclusively charitable purposes

is governed by the law of Northern Ireland

has control and direction over its governance and resources<

The Commission manages the registration process by calling charities to apply in batches. In order to be called forward to register, new charities must make the Commission aware of their existence. You can do this by filing an expression of intent form.

Charities registered with the Commission must also comply with a number of legal responsibilities, including reporting to the Commission on their activities, governance and finances on an annual basis. See annual reports for your charity.

The Charity Commission for Northern Ireland provides further information on registering a new charity.
Content category

Starting a business
Source URL
/content/register-your-charity

Links
Annual reports for your charity

You must report your charity’s finances, resources and activities on an annual basis.
Once you have registered your charity with the Charity Commission for Northern Ireland, you are legally required to report your charity’s finances, resources and activities.

Registered charities must submit a report through the annual reporting programme. It must include the charity's:

accounts

trustees’ annual report

report from independent examiner/auditor (if required)

Usually, registered charities must submit an annual monitoring return for their first full financial year following their registration date. However, following the Charities Act (Northern Ireland) 2022, the annual reporting rules for some charities have changed.

The Act created differing annual reporting requirements for charities. They vary for those registered before and after May 2019.

For further information, see the Charity Commission’s guidance on annual reporting by charities – when you must submit your charity’s accounts and reports.
Content category

Starting a business
Source URL
/content/annual-reports-your-charity

Links

Create a governing document for your charity

smcsorley — Wed, 08 Nov 2023 16:29:34 +0000

Create a governing document for your charity smcsorley Wed, 08/11/2023 - 16:29

Set up a charity

In this guide:

Set up a charity: Ensure your charity has a charitable purpose

Your charity must fall under one of the 12 descriptions of charitable purposes.
To be a charity in Northern Ireland, your organisations must have a charitable purpose that is for public benefit.

The 12 descriptions of charitable purposes, under the Charities Act (Northern Ireland) 2008, are:

the prevention or relief of poverty

the advancement of education

the advancement of religion

the advancement of health or the saving of lives

the advancement of citizenship or community development

the advancement of the arts, culture, heritage or science

the advancement of amateur sport

the advancement of human rights, conflict resolution or reconciliation or the promotion of religious or racial harmony or equality and diversity

the advancement of environmental protection or improvement

the relief of those in need by reason of youth, age, ill-health, disability, financial hardship or other disadvantage

the advancement of animal welfare

any other charitable purpose

If any of your purposes are outside this list, then your organisation cannot be a charity in Northern Ireland.

Public benefit rules for charities

Your charity’s ‘purpose’ is what it is set up to achieve. For an organisation to be a charity, each of its purposes must be for the public benefit. The Charity Commission for Northern Ireland has produced statutory guidance on the public benefit requirement.
Actions

The Charity Commission for Northern Ireland public benefit requirement

Content category

Starting a business
Source URL
/content/set-charity-ensure-your-charity-has-charitable-purpose

Links
Choose a structure for your charity

Unincorporated association, charitable company or charitable trust – find the right legal structure for your charity and understand the differences.
To set up a new charity, you must decide what sort of legal structure it will have.

There are three main types of charity structures:

unincorporated association

charitable company

charitable trust

Your charity structure is defined by its governing document, the legal document that creates the charity and explains how it should be run. See create a governing document for your charity.

The type of structure you choose affects how your charity will operate, such as:

who will run it and whether it will have a wider membership

whether it can enter contracts or employ staff in its own name

whether the trustees will be personally liable for what the charity does

Unincorporated association

Unincorporated associations can be easier to set up than other forms of charity. You may decide to use this structure if you are aiming to create a small charity with more than one charitable purpose.

Unincorporated associations do not have a separate legal identity, which means they can’t hold land or investments in their own name.

The charity trustees have personal legal responsibility for what the charity does. If you decide to set up this type of charity, it would be a good idea to seek legal advice about your liabilities.

Charitable company

A charitable company can own land and enter contracts in its own name.

Charitable companies also have limited liability for debts or lawsuits. This means that their company members are usually only liable for a limited amount of money that is set out in their governing document. See create a governing document for your charity.

Charity trustees will still be liable for losses due to fraud or intentional wrongdoing.

Charities that decide to be companies may:

be large

have employees

enter commercial contracts

own freehold or leasehold land, or other property

A charitable company must comply with the Companies Act 2006. Companies must register with the Charity Commission for Northern Ireland and with Companies House.

Charitable trust

Charitable trusts are usually set up with a specific sum of money and a group of people who become the trustees.

You might use this structure if your charity:

will only make grants to individuals or organisations

will be run by a small group of people

will not have a membership

will not employ staff or enter into contracts

Like unincorporated associations, charitable trusts don’t have a separate legal identity, which means they can’t hold land or investments in their own name. This means that the charity trustees share personal legal responsibility for the trust.

It may be valuable to seek legal advice when setting up your charity – see choose a solicitor for your business.
Content category

Starting a business
Source URL
/content/choose-structure-your-charity

Links
Find trustees for your charity

Who are charity trustees, and why are they essential to your charity's success? Learn their roles, responsibilities, and how to recruit them.
Trustees are the people who control a charity and ensure that the proper procedures and policies are in place to meet its charitable purpose.

It is important for any charity to have trustees with the skills, knowledge, and experience that the charity needs. Trustee skills can range in nature from financial or marketing skills to fundraising skills and links with relevant communities or stakeholders.

Trustees play an essential role in the governance of charities. They also have a lot to contribute to their success. They can:

help promote communication with the communities that a charity is targeting

bring valuable professional, business, and legal experience to charities

help to ensure that charities are well-managed through the appointment of senior staff

The Charity Commission for Northern Ireland recommends that each charity has a minimum of three charity trustees. If a dispute arises within the charity, there can always be a deciding vote.

How to find trustees for your charity

There are several ways that trustee boards can recruit new trustees. Personal recommendation and word of mouth is a popular option. Social media, such as LinkedIn, can also help promote the trustee role, in addition to free notices on local websites, notice boards or newsletters.

Further 91�㽶��ɫ��Ƶ is available from the following organisations:

NICVA (Northern Ireland Council for Voluntary Action) provides further information on trustees and delivers regular training for trustees – find out more.

Volunteer Now has a members directory of volunteers and provides training and promotion of volunteering opportunities – find out more.

Community NI helps voluntary, community and social enterprises to create a page providing information about their organisation and the services they provide – this includes posts about news, events, jobs, and opportunities. Find out more.

Some people are disqualified by law from acting as charity trustees – section 86 of the Charities Act (Northern Ireland) 2008 provides further information on the disqualifications.

The Charity Commission for Northern Ireland has further information on trusteeship and recruiting new trustees.
Also on this site

Social enterprise and co-operative 91�㽶��ɫ��Ƶ

Content category

Starting a business
Source URL
/content/find-trustees-your-charity

Links
Choose a name for your charity

How to find the right name for your charity with tips on branding, naming rules, and registering with the Charity Commission for Northern Ireland.
Your charity name is central to your brand and influences how the public recognises you.

When you are choosing a name for your charity, you should:

be creative and choose a unique name that people will remember when they want to make a donation or volunteer

avoid words that may be misleading or cause offence

keep it simple - pick a name that is easy to say and easy to spell to ensure that customers can recommend you and find you online

be aware of intellectual property rights and check that the name you want to use is available – check the Charity Commission for Northern Ireland’s register of charities

For further information and tips see choose the right name for your business.

Working or alternative charity name

Some charities can have more than one name – a main name and a working name. For example, Comic Relief is a working name for Charity Projects.

When you apply to register your charity with the Charity Commission for Northern Ireland, ensure that you include any alternative, abbreviated or working names.

Can the Charity Commission for Northern Ireland instruct a charity to change its name?

Under certain circumstances, the Charity Commission for Northern Ireland can request or direct a charity to change its name. For example, if the name is the same or is too similar to another charity or is likely to mislead the public on the nature of the charity.

The Charity Commission for Northern Ireland provides further information on choosing your charity’s name.
Also on this site

Choose the right name for your business

Content category

Starting a business
Source URL
/content/choose-name-your-charity

Links
Create a governing document for your charity

How to create a governing document for your charity, including required details, document types and templates.
You must create a governing document that explains how your charity is run.

Your governing document lets trustees and other interested parties find out:

your charity’s purpose

who runs it and how they run it

how trustees will be appointed

rules about trustees’ expenses

rules about payments to trustees

how to close the charity

The governing document should also outline procedures for meetings, voting and finances.

There are a few different types of governing documents, including:

a constitution for an association

articles of association for a company

rules for an Industrial and Provident Society

a trust deed for a trust

a will for a will trust

Governing document templates

The Charity Commission for Northern Ireland provides model governing documents. Charities can use the templates as a starting point and adapt them to meet their organisation’s specific requirements.
Content category

Starting a business
Source URL
/content/create-governing-document-your-charity

Links
Register your charity

How to register your charity in Northern Ireland.
The Charity Commission for Northern Ireland is the independent regulator of charities in Northern Ireland.

An organisation must apply for registration as a charity in Northern Ireland if it:

has exclusively charitable purposes

is governed by the law of Northern Ireland

has control and direction over its governance and resources<

The Commission manages the registration process by calling charities to apply in batches. In order to be called forward to register, new charities must make the Commission aware of their existence. You can do this by filing an expression of intent form.

Charities registered with the Commission must also comply with a number of legal responsibilities, including reporting to the Commission on their activities, governance and finances on an annual basis. See annual reports for your charity.

The Charity Commission for Northern Ireland provides further information on registering a new charity.
Content category

Starting a business
Source URL
/content/register-your-charity

Links
Annual reports for your charity

You must report your charity’s finances, resources and activities on an annual basis.
Once you have registered your charity with the Charity Commission for Northern Ireland, you are legally required to report your charity’s finances, resources and activities.

Registered charities must submit a report through the annual reporting programme. It must include the charity's:

accounts

trustees’ annual report

report from independent examiner/auditor (if required)

Usually, registered charities must submit an annual monitoring return for their first full financial year following their registration date. However, following the Charities Act (Northern Ireland) 2022, the annual reporting rules for some charities have changed.

The Act created differing annual reporting requirements for charities. They vary for those registered before and after May 2019.

For further information, see the Charity Commission’s guidance on annual reporting by charities – when you must submit your charity’s accounts and reports.
Content category

Starting a business
Source URL
/content/annual-reports-your-charity

Links

Choose a name for your charity

smcsorley — Wed, 08 Nov 2023 15:57:02 +0000

Choose a name for your charity smcsorley Wed, 08/11/2023 - 15:57

Set up a charity

In this guide:

Set up a charity: Ensure your charity has a charitable purpose

Your charity must fall under one of the 12 descriptions of charitable purposes.
To be a charity in Northern Ireland, your organisations must have a charitable purpose that is for public benefit.

The 12 descriptions of charitable purposes, under the Charities Act (Northern Ireland) 2008, are:

the prevention or relief of poverty

the advancement of education

the advancement of religion

the advancement of health or the saving of lives

the advancement of citizenship or community development

the advancement of the arts, culture, heritage or science

the advancement of amateur sport

the advancement of human rights, conflict resolution or reconciliation or the promotion of religious or racial harmony or equality and diversity

the advancement of environmental protection or improvement

the relief of those in need by reason of youth, age, ill-health, disability, financial hardship or other disadvantage

the advancement of animal welfare

any other charitable purpose

If any of your purposes are outside this list, then your organisation cannot be a charity in Northern Ireland.

Public benefit rules for charities

Your charity’s ‘purpose’ is what it is set up to achieve. For an organisation to be a charity, each of its purposes must be for the public benefit. The Charity Commission for Northern Ireland has produced statutory guidance on the public benefit requirement.
Actions

The Charity Commission for Northern Ireland public benefit requirement

Content category

Starting a business
Source URL
/content/set-charity-ensure-your-charity-has-charitable-purpose

Links
Choose a structure for your charity

Unincorporated association, charitable company or charitable trust – find the right legal structure for your charity and understand the differences.
To set up a new charity, you must decide what sort of legal structure it will have.

There are three main types of charity structures:

unincorporated association

charitable company

charitable trust

Your charity structure is defined by its governing document, the legal document that creates the charity and explains how it should be run. See create a governing document for your charity.

The type of structure you choose affects how your charity will operate, such as:

who will run it and whether it will have a wider membership

whether it can enter contracts or employ staff in its own name

whether the trustees will be personally liable for what the charity does

Unincorporated association

Unincorporated associations can be easier to set up than other forms of charity. You may decide to use this structure if you are aiming to create a small charity with more than one charitable purpose.

Unincorporated associations do not have a separate legal identity, which means they can’t hold land or investments in their own name.

The charity trustees have personal legal responsibility for what the charity does. If you decide to set up this type of charity, it would be a good idea to seek legal advice about your liabilities.

Charitable company

A charitable company can own land and enter contracts in its own name.

Charitable companies also have limited liability for debts or lawsuits. This means that their company members are usually only liable for a limited amount of money that is set out in their governing document. See create a governing document for your charity.

Charity trustees will still be liable for losses due to fraud or intentional wrongdoing.

Charities that decide to be companies may:

be large

have employees

enter commercial contracts

own freehold or leasehold land, or other property

A charitable company must comply with the Companies Act 2006. Companies must register with the Charity Commission for Northern Ireland and with Companies House.

Charitable trust

Charitable trusts are usually set up with a specific sum of money and a group of people who become the trustees.

You might use this structure if your charity:

will only make grants to individuals or organisations

will be run by a small group of people

will not have a membership

will not employ staff or enter into contracts

Like unincorporated associations, charitable trusts don’t have a separate legal identity, which means they can’t hold land or investments in their own name. This means that the charity trustees share personal legal responsibility for the trust.

It may be valuable to seek legal advice when setting up your charity – see choose a solicitor for your business.
Content category

Starting a business
Source URL
/content/choose-structure-your-charity

Links
Find trustees for your charity

Who are charity trustees, and why are they essential to your charity's success? Learn their roles, responsibilities, and how to recruit them.
Trustees are the people who control a charity and ensure that the proper procedures and policies are in place to meet its charitable purpose.

It is important for any charity to have trustees with the skills, knowledge, and experience that the charity needs. Trustee skills can range in nature from financial or marketing skills to fundraising skills and links with relevant communities or stakeholders.

Trustees play an essential role in the governance of charities. They also have a lot to contribute to their success. They can:

help promote communication with the communities that a charity is targeting

bring valuable professional, business, and legal experience to charities

help to ensure that charities are well-managed through the appointment of senior staff

The Charity Commission for Northern Ireland recommends that each charity has a minimum of three charity trustees. If a dispute arises within the charity, there can always be a deciding vote.

How to find trustees for your charity

There are several ways that trustee boards can recruit new trustees. Personal recommendation and word of mouth is a popular option. Social media, such as LinkedIn, can also help promote the trustee role, in addition to free notices on local websites, notice boards or newsletters.

Further 91�㽶��ɫ��Ƶ is available from the following organisations:

NICVA (Northern Ireland Council for Voluntary Action) provides further information on trustees and delivers regular training for trustees – find out more.

Volunteer Now has a members directory of volunteers and provides training and promotion of volunteering opportunities – find out more.

Community NI helps voluntary, community and social enterprises to create a page providing information about their organisation and the services they provide – this includes posts about news, events, jobs, and opportunities. Find out more.

Some people are disqualified by law from acting as charity trustees – section 86 of the Charities Act (Northern Ireland) 2008 provides further information on the disqualifications.

The Charity Commission for Northern Ireland has further information on trusteeship and recruiting new trustees.
Also on this site

Social enterprise and co-operative 91�㽶��ɫ��Ƶ

Content category

Starting a business
Source URL
/content/find-trustees-your-charity

Links
Choose a name for your charity

How to find the right name for your charity with tips on branding, naming rules, and registering with the Charity Commission for Northern Ireland.
Your charity name is central to your brand and influences how the public recognises you.

When you are choosing a name for your charity, you should:

be creative and choose a unique name that people will remember when they want to make a donation or volunteer

avoid words that may be misleading or cause offence

keep it simple - pick a name that is easy to say and easy to spell to ensure that customers can recommend you and find you online

be aware of intellectual property rights and check that the name you want to use is available – check the Charity Commission for Northern Ireland’s register of charities

For further information and tips see choose the right name for your business.

Working or alternative charity name

Some charities can have more than one name – a main name and a working name. For example, Comic Relief is a working name for Charity Projects.

When you apply to register your charity with the Charity Commission for Northern Ireland, ensure that you include any alternative, abbreviated or working names.

Can the Charity Commission for Northern Ireland instruct a charity to change its name?

Under certain circumstances, the Charity Commission for Northern Ireland can request or direct a charity to change its name. For example, if the name is the same or is too similar to another charity or is likely to mislead the public on the nature of the charity.

The Charity Commission for Northern Ireland provides further information on choosing your charity’s name.
Also on this site

Choose the right name for your business

Content category

Starting a business
Source URL
/content/choose-name-your-charity

Links
Create a governing document for your charity

How to create a governing document for your charity, including required details, document types and templates.
You must create a governing document that explains how your charity is run.

Your governing document lets trustees and other interested parties find out:

your charity’s purpose

who runs it and how they run it

how trustees will be appointed

rules about trustees’ expenses

rules about payments to trustees

how to close the charity

The governing document should also outline procedures for meetings, voting and finances.

There are a few different types of governing documents, including:

a constitution for an association

articles of association for a company

rules for an Industrial and Provident Society

a trust deed for a trust

a will for a will trust

Governing document templates

The Charity Commission for Northern Ireland provides model governing documents. Charities can use the templates as a starting point and adapt them to meet their organisation’s specific requirements.
Content category

Starting a business
Source URL
/content/create-governing-document-your-charity

Links
Register your charity

How to register your charity in Northern Ireland.
The Charity Commission for Northern Ireland is the independent regulator of charities in Northern Ireland.

An organisation must apply for registration as a charity in Northern Ireland if it:

has exclusively charitable purposes

is governed by the law of Northern Ireland

has control and direction over its governance and resources<

The Commission manages the registration process by calling charities to apply in batches. In order to be called forward to register, new charities must make the Commission aware of their existence. You can do this by filing an expression of intent form.

Charities registered with the Commission must also comply with a number of legal responsibilities, including reporting to the Commission on their activities, governance and finances on an annual basis. See annual reports for your charity.

The Charity Commission for Northern Ireland provides further information on registering a new charity.
Content category

Starting a business
Source URL
/content/register-your-charity

Links
Annual reports for your charity

You must report your charity’s finances, resources and activities on an annual basis.
Once you have registered your charity with the Charity Commission for Northern Ireland, you are legally required to report your charity’s finances, resources and activities.

Registered charities must submit a report through the annual reporting programme. It must include the charity's:

accounts

trustees’ annual report

report from independent examiner/auditor (if required)

Usually, registered charities must submit an annual monitoring return for their first full financial year following their registration date. However, following the Charities Act (Northern Ireland) 2022, the annual reporting rules for some charities have changed.

The Act created differing annual reporting requirements for charities. They vary for those registered before and after May 2019.

For further information, see the Charity Commission’s guidance on annual reporting by charities – when you must submit your charity’s accounts and reports.
Content category

Starting a business
Source URL
/content/annual-reports-your-charity

Links

Starting a business

Here’s how we run a successful social enterprise business

Start a social enterprise

The social economy in Northern Ireland

What is social impact?

Source URL

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Social enterprises and the public sector

Benefits of public sector contracts

Barriers facing social enterprises competing for public service contracts

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Links

Support for social enterprises in Northern Ireland

Source URL

Links

Financial 91�㽶��ɫ��Ƶ for social enterprises in Northern Ireland

Support schemes for starting and expanding social enterprises

Social Enterprise Thematic Programme

Social Enterprise Bootcamp

Social Enterprise and Co-operative Support

Growth Impact Fund

Green Support Scheme

Harnessing Heritage Programme

Village Catalyst Programme

Millenium Awards Trust

National Lottery Awards for All Northern Ireland

Community Finance Ireland Loan

PEACEPLUS Change Maker Funding Programme

MSE Charity Grants

Open Grants Programme

Business finance and 91�㽶��ɫ��Ƶ finder

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Starting a social enterprise - SlackPress (video)

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Here's how we run a social enterprise - Loaf Catering (video)

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Start a social enterprise

Here’s how we run a successful social enterprise business

Why I chose to be a social enterprise

Advantages and challenges of running a social enterprise

Support and funding

Success and growth

Source URL

Links

Financial 91�㽶��ɫ��Ƶ for social enterprises in Northern Ireland

Start a social enterprise

The social economy in Northern Ireland

What is social impact?

Source URL

Links

Social enterprises and the public sector

Benefits of public sector contracts

Barriers facing social enterprises competing for public service contracts

Source URL

Links

Support for social enterprises in Northern Ireland

Source URL

Links

Financial 91�㽶��ɫ��Ƶ for social enterprises in Northern Ireland

Support schemes for starting and expanding social enterprises

Social Enterprise Thematic Programme

Social Enterprise Bootcamp

Social Enterprise and Co-operative Support

Growth Impact Fund

Green Support Scheme

Harnessing Heritage Programme

Village Catalyst Programme

Millenium Awards Trust

National Lottery Awards for All Northern Ireland

Community Finance Ireland Loan

PEACEPLUS Change Maker Funding Programme

MSE Charity Grants