Social Enterprises: An introduction to starting a social enterprise

Date: Thursday 12th February 2026

Time: 9.30 for a 10am start – 1pm finish

Please bring your own lunch but refreshments will be provided.

This training is an in person, 3 hour training session held at the Devon Communities Together offices – 1 Northleigh House, Thorverton Road, Exeter EX2 8HF. Please note that a minimum of 6 attendees are required in order for this training to go ahead.

• Are you thinking of starting a social enterprise?

• Do you want to understand what a social enterprise is and how they operate?

• Would you like to know how what to consider when you’re starting up?

What will the training include?

If you’re thinking of starting a business that makes a positive impact on the world, you might be considering a social enterprise. What is a social enterprise, and how is it different to charities, community organisations, or other forms of business?

The landscape can be confusing and full of technical language. This training session will demystify social enterprise, allowing participants to come away with an understanding of what a social enterprise is, how they operate, and key considerations when starting a social enterprise.

Participants will be introduced to effective tools, methods, and networks that you can use to take your social enterprise further. This is an interactive training session and includes space for questions and exploration.