Proud to represent social enterprises in Northern Ireland
SENI is proud to be the representative body for social enterprises in Northern Ireland and are dedicated to the mission of connecting, supporting, and empowering dynamic social enterprises that drive positive change. By supporting these businesses generate profit with purpose, they can inspire a lasting impact and create a more inclusive and sustainable society.
Connection and collaboration – what makes them successful?
As the Members Relationship Manager Audrey understands the importance of meaningful connection and collaboration, and these are always most successful when it begins with a personal relationship. Networking is not about exchanging business cards, it is about fostering authentic relationships that can help you grow and achieve your social mission as well as getting your business’s name out there. Audrey says:
"People follow people, not businesses. So, by getting out there and meeting people, you are representing your business and the work that you do. That is the best marketing you could possibly wish for and, guess what, it is free!"
SENI understand the challenges and opportunities faced by businesses in the VCSE sector and share the common goal of creating lasting, positive change in communities. Businesses can all have incredible ideas, products and services that are providing critical support to those who need it. But they may also be time-poor and under-resourced.
The right skills and strong networks
Audrey also understands that to succeed in this sector, we need more than passion, adding
"We need the right skills, strong networks, and the tools to promote our businesses effectively”.
In answer to these needs, SENI has developed a comprehensive programme of skills workshops and networking events to support people working in this sector.
For businesses to grow and scale, it is critically important to develop your skills and the skills of your workforce. From board governance to tendering, marketing solutions to exploring AI, SENI offers both online webinars and in-person workshops which can benefit those in the VCSE sector. It is often tempting to just put your head down and get the work done, but without taking a step back, meeting new people and upskilling your team, your business will not grow to its full potential.
SENI organises regional networking events all around Northern Ireland, so you can meet like-minded businesses in your local area. These sessions can enable businesses and organisations to collaborate, share knowledge and find new ways to enhance their impact. Audrey added “All over a cup of coffee and a scone! You never know who might be in the room, they could be your next customer, colleague, collaborator or even funder”.
But networking isn’t the only way to get yourself out there. Awards can really elevate your business, showcase it to a captive audience and increase its recognition. If there’s something you do particularly well, consider putting your organisation forward for an award. SENI will be opening the applications for the NI Social Enterprise Awards 2025 in May, so keep an eye out.
Further Information
- To find out more about their upcoming events & training, click here
- To learn more about becoming a member of SENI, click here
- To sign up for SENI’s newsletter, click here
