Social Enterprise Support Programme Open Call
The Department for the Economy (DfE) is inviting proposals to deliver activity under the Social Enterprise Support Programme. The programme supports the implementation of priorities identified through the Social Enterprise Action Plan and aims to strengthen the social enterprise sector across Northern Ireland.
The Social Economy Work Programme is intended to support activity delivered during financial years 2027/28 to 2029/30. Applicants may submit proposals covering one, two or three years, depending on the objective and activity proposed.
Objectives
Applications are invited for activity aligned to one or more of the following objectives:
A. Social enterprise structural support to include one of more of the following:
a. development and promotion of social enterprises to promote individual business growth;
b. strategic sectoral support aimed at growing the sector as a whole;
c. engagement with public sector policy development in the interests of the sector.
B. Social Enterprise Action Plan support to include one or more of the following:
- awareness of the sector;
- leadership and training;
- investment support;
- procurement;
- access to growth.
Who can apply?
Applications are welcome from organisations with relevant experience in supporting social enterprises and delivering sector development activity.
Applications may be submitted by individual organisations or a consortium led by a nominated lead applicant.
What are we looking for?
DfE welcomes proposals that:
- Demonstrate innovation and new approaches;
- Encourage collaboration and partnership working;
- Deliver value for money;
- Support regional balance;
- Encourage economic growth; and
- Address identified needs within the social enterprise sector.
An information session will be held on 17 September 2026 at 1030 in:
Northern Regional College
22 Moneymore Road
Magherafelt
BT45 6AE
To register for this event please use the following link:
How to apply
Full application details, eligibility criteria and required documentation are linked below.
- Social Enterprise Support Programme – Open Call Information Booklet
- Annex A – Applicant Guidance: Costings
- Privacy Notice
If you have a question that is not covered in the information pack or FAQs, please contact: socialeconomy@economy-ni.gov.uk