If you have a solution to a social or environmental problem, help is available to turn your plan into reality.
Social Entrepreneurs Ireland runs an annual three-month programme called "The Ideas Academy" - to support projects make a positive change.
Since its foundation in 2004, the charity has already helped more than 600 social entrepreneurs work in areas like mental health, the environment and unemployment, providing over €14 million in funding and pro-bono supports during that time.
Previous graduates of "The Ideas Academy" include Kerry based WellAble, a website exploring disability issues, and Move2B, which helps girls get and stay involved in sports and physical activities.
Social Entrepreneurs Ireland celebrates its 20th anniversary this year.
The Ideas Academy’s three-month programme is open to anyone wanting to make a difference in communities and create positive change, and is part of a €500,000 investment by Social Entrepreneurs Ireland in early-stage social entrepreneurship this year.
Applications are open until Tuesday, 12th March 2024, and registration is now open for people to attend an online information event featuring contributions from programme graduates on Tuesday, 20th February.
The 30 successful applicants will receive training and support to further scope out the social or environmental problem that they are trying to solve, to fine-tune their solution, and to set out an action plan to make their vision a reality.
They will receive a €500 bursary and an opportunity to apply for a share of a €25,000 seed fund to pilot their idea once they graduate.
For more information, see: www.socialentrepreneurs.ie/theideasacademy.
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Social Entrepreneurs Ireland will soon be seeking applications for its 2024 Impact Programme, for social entrepreneurs who are further along in their journey.
This is a nine-month programme in which five successful entrepreneurs will receive a share of €100,000 in direct funding to scale up their already established social enterprise that has had proven impact and are ready to take their organisation to the next level.
They will also receive bespoke supports including one-to-one coaching, consultancy and mentorship from the Social Entrepreneurs Ireland team, experienced social entrepreneurs and leading business experts alongside training, workshops and group discussions in key areas such as leadership, team growth, strategic planning, fundraising, impactful storytelling and governance.
Applications close on Wednesday, 24th April 2024. See: socialentrepreneurs.ie/impactprogramme.
