Free to attend Social Enterprise Showcase and learning events across Dumfries and Galloway are launching this month and continuing through to March.
Social enterprises are making a real difference to residents and communities across the region and these events have been designed to highlight both the impact and breadth of work they deliver.
The programme of visits is supported by South of Scotland Enterprise and organised by Third Sector Dumfries and Galloway.
Research estimates that there are almost 250 social enterprises in Dumfries and Galloway, from arts and creative industries, circular economy (reuse) enterprises, employment initiatives, through to community development and regeneration.
These businesses place social or environmental impact above personal profit and the traditional shareholder model.
Each event will feature a tour and conversation with the leaders of the social enterprise, as well as the opportunity to hear from related experts from Community Land Scotland, Scotland Architecture and Design, Circular Communities Scotland, The Stove, and Social Enterprise Scotland, with a Social Enterprise Dumfries and Galloway Network meeting being held on Tuesday January 31.
The visits begin with The Langholm Initiative (January 17), followed by the Community Reuse Shop in Stranraer (January 24), Annan Harbour Action Group (January 25), CatStrand in New Galloway (January 31), Let’s Get Sporty in Dumfries (February 2), and finishing with A’ the Airts in Sanquhar (March 23).
The events are open to other social enterprise organisations, those wanting to establish a social enterprise, or people interested in the model and looking to learn more about buying from or supporting the work they do. Limited travel bursaries are available for social enterprise organisations that wish to attend and the events themselves are free.
Matt Baker, CEO at The Stove Network in Dumfries, and Chair of the Social Enterprise Network in Dumfries and Galloway, said: “We really look forward to welcoming social enterprise and social entrepreneurs from across the region to these events. Having launched a new network for these groups last year we are now looking at how we can build on this to support and connect organisations throughout Dumfries and Galloway.
“The events also mark a starting point in work we plan to undertake to promote social enterprise and increase awareness and understanding of the work they undertake.”
For more information on the events or to book your place please visit www.tsdg.org.uk/events and search for ‘Showcase’.