Published on:
24
January 2003
No, it's not a Star Trek convention in Alloa. These events are all about social enterprises. And their aim is to give people the run down on what this involves - whether they want to set up an enterprise or would like to lend their skills to a fledgling group.
Social enterprises are businesses that have the needs of the community at heart - they are not about making profit, but any profit they may make is channelled back into the business and the Community in general.
Alloa Community Enterprises (ACE) is perhaps the best local example of a social enterprise. Established in 1984, it is now regarded as one of the most successful community recycling business in Scotland. The Scottish Society for Autism Carers is another strong Social Enterprise based in Clackmannanshire. Both ACE and SSAC are expert in sourcing funding to enable them to undertake commercial and non commercial activities which enable them to provide goods, services and support for their communities.
Some other examples include increasing local childcare provision or providing work and training, as seen in Candies café, which operates in the Click Centre in Alloa. Individuals, community groups, charities, voluntary organisations and existing businesses can all get involved in creating and developing social enterprises.
A series of events taking place over the coming weeks will give people more information on various enterprises, how to become involved - and how the Kilncraigs based Centre for Social & Entrepreneurial Activities (CSEA), their partners and staff can support you and help develop your idea.
Grace Mitchell, Social Enterprises Development Co-ordinator of CSEA said: "We have planned events from early February, right through to the end of March in various locations in the county. At these informal events people can come along and find out more about what help and resources are available.
"Everyone is welcome whether they are currently running a group, looking for ways to improve their locality or have a skill they would like to share with a group. Many retired people get involved with developing and running Social Enterprises because they feel they are giving something back to the community - and feel it keeps their brain ticking while they are in retirement."
"Social Enterprises are supported by Communities Scotland and Social Investment Scotland and can access loans and grants to get started. By becoming involved in establishing social enterprises, clients can develop their idea in a more business-like way, with all the benefits that can bring. There are a number of different ways groups can establish themselves, whether as charities, friendly societies, co-operatives - the list goes on and that's why its important to get the right advice early on."
A newsletter which explains more about the CSEA will be delivered to every household in the area by the end of this month.
Why not come along and find out more about Kilncraigs, the CSEA and social enterprise. Don't forget to get vouchers for a free beauty treatment at Helen's hairdressing salon, discounts at G.M Mutch or J&M Stationers and Alloa's Leisure Bowl 'Get Fit for Business'.
Events start at 7pm and refreshments will be provided.
They dates are:Wednesday February 5 Alloa TowerMonday February 10 Sauchie Hall, SauchieWednesday, February 12 Tillicoultry Community CentreMonday February 17 Tullibody Civic CentreTuesday March 4 Clackmannan Town HallTuesday March 11 Dollar Civic Centre Wednesday March 12 Royal Oak Hotel, AlloaWednesday March 19 Bowmar Community CentreWednesday March 26 Hollytree Hotel, Menstrie