TDS Northern Ireland is proud to announce a new strategic partnership with Social Enterprise Northern Ireland (SENI) to support leadership and sustainability in the social enterprise sector. This collaboration will see the launch of two major initiatives aimed at strengthening the capacity and impact of social enterprises across Northern Ireland.
- Leadership Development Programme
This new Executive Leadership Development Programme will support up to 60 Social enterprise leaders across three cohorts which will take place over the next 18 months. While the programme will heavily be subsidised for social enterprise leaders. We would encourage private sector leaders to also join the programme, to build their networks in the sector and share in the peer networking.
Designed and delivered by experienced facilitators from the Social Enterprise Academy, the programme will focus on developing enterprising & commercially focused mindsets, financial sustainability, and resilient leadership. Participants will benefit from a blend of in-person and online learning, peer networking, and optional accreditation through Glasgow Caledonian University.
Applications for the first cohort will open shortly, with places available for up to 18 learners per cohort. The programme includes modules on sustainability, commercial strategy, design thinking, and personal resilience, alongside masterclasses tailored to learner needs. To register your interest in the first cohort please complete the online application here: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/ExecutiveLeadershipProgramme
- Social Enterprise Grant Fund
In addition to the leadership programme, TDS Northern Ireland will allocate £15,000 in grant funding to support social enterprises in Northern Ireland. These grants are intended to assist recipients in scaling their impact, investing in innovation, and building long-term sustainability. The grants will be distributed through regional events following a Dragons’ Den-style format to ensure accessibility across Northern Ireland.
Welcoming the partnership, Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald said:
“Our social enterprise sector is a key contributor to our local economy. I therefore very much welcome initiatives that support its continued and increased contribution to inclusive economic development. The new programmes this partnership will deliver are an investment in this vital sector and the people who drive it.”
Eamonn Hunt, Head of TDS Northern Ireland, said:
“At TDS Northern Ireland, we believe in the power of social enterprise to drive meaningful change in our communities. This partnership with Social Enterprise Northern Ireland reflects our commitment to supporting innovation, leadership, and sustainability in the sector. We’re proud to invest in the people and organisations that are shaping a more inclusive and resilient Northern Ireland.”
Colin Jess, Chief Executive of Social Enterprise Northern Ireland, added:
“This partnership with TDS Northern Ireland is a powerful step forward in our mission to build a stronger, more sustainable social enterprise sector. By investing in leadership and providing targeted financial support, we are equipping social entrepreneurs with the tools and confidence they need to grow their impact and drive positive change in communities across Northern Ireland.”
For more information, contact SENI at amanda@socialenterpriseni.org or download the programme overview – click here
About TDS Northern Ireland
TDS Northern Ireland is part of TDS Group, the UK’s leading deposit protection and resolution services provider. Based in Belfast and authorised by the Department for Communities, TDS Northern Ireland provides deposit protection, along with free, impartial dispute resolution services. Committed to creating social value, we’re invested in reducing disputes effectively, raising standards, and making life easier for businesses and consumers in the Northern Ireland property sector and beyond.
About Social Enterprise Northern Ireland
Social Enterprise Northern Ireland (SENI) is the representative body for social enterprises across Northern Ireland. It champions the sector by providing support, advocacy, and development opportunities to help social enterprises grow and thrive. SENI works to create a more inclusive and sustainable economy by empowering organisations that combine business with social purpose.
Captions
Image: L-R Eamonn Hunt, Head of TDS NI, Minister for the Economy, Caoimhe Archibald and Amanda Johnston, Head of Business Development for Social Enterprise NI