Social enterprises in Norwich are set to benefit from free support and guidance after Norwich City Council awarded FUSE Norwich £40,000.
FUSE will equip budding entrepreneurs with the necessary skills and knowledge to progress their social enterprise ideas at a series of free workshops, as well as helping local organisations to grow through training and individually tailored support.
Norwich is one of the UK’s hot-spots for social enterprises - which are businesses which trade for a social or environmental purpose - and is recognised as a social enterprise city. This provides benefits ranging from a stronger economy and good jobs, to tackling inequalities and improving sustainablity. The collaboration between the city council and FUSE aims to build on this success by giving more social enterprises the tools they need to do well.
The £40,000 funding provided by Norwich City Council comes from the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.
Councillor Adam Giles, cabinet member for communities and social inclusion, said:
“We are facing some really complex challenges and recognise that social enterprises are part of the solution. These businesses are working for people and planet, and doing so much good in our city.
“By supporting FUSE to deliver this project, I hope we see many more social enterprises get off the ground, add to the growing community of socially minded businesses in Norwich, and ultimately help us create a more prosperous and sustainable future.”
Lucy Parish, non-executive director of FUSE Norwich, said:
“We are excited about this partnership to progress the growth, sustainability, and impact of Norwich’s vibrant social economy. With the support of Norwich City Council, we will be able to strengthen local social enterprises in their mission to address some of the most pressing societal challenges of our time.”
FUSE Norwich’s workshops will be delivered jointly with MENTA – a leading provider of business advice and training.
The next workshop is on 30 November at The Shoebox on Castle Meadow. This free workshop will cover everything from how to get started as a social enterprise including ongoing requirements, legal structure and social media.
On 2 December, existing and aspiring social entrepreneurs are invited to join FUSE and MENTA for their Winter Networking Event at the Millennium Library to get more information about available support, and learn from the journeys of fellow local social enterprises.
Find out more and sign up for workshops on FUSE Norwich's website.
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