Do you want to make the world a better place? Then can help
communities include The Big Issue, Fifteen – a Jamie Oliver restaurant and the Co-op.
Having helped many people launch a social enterprise here at the BIC and throughout my career, I know that this model can also open up doors to finance which are closed to the private and statutory sectors.
The vast majority of social entrepreneurs believe running a social enterprise is a better, more democratic and sociably accountable way of doing business.
They believe such an approach to business has never been more important, particularly following the financial crisis which highlighted the weaknesses of working to the single aim of maximising profit.
Social entrepreneurs are usually driven by the ‘social’ part, but I’d advise that although impact is the important bit, don’t forget that it’s also an enterprise. Always think about your bottom line.
And articulate your idea clearly – take the time to refine your business idea so you can increase your chances of success. Then have a think about writing a business plan – focussing on various matters like pricing, overheads, demand and supply (scaling up).
And if you’re interested in taking your idea further, then please visit the BIC – we can support you on many aspects of starting up, including business planning, legal matters, financial projections, how to access to funding and more.
Call 0191 516 6111 or visit www.ne-bic.co.uk for more information or to book a free appointment with a specialist adviser.