SENI announced the launch of the long-awaited Social Enterprise Directory at their Meet the Procurer today, Tuesday, 24th September, alongside Economy Minister Conor Murphy. The unique event bridged the gap between Social Enterprises and private and public sectors organisations, hosting a platform to network, gain insights, and explore new opportunities that could take local businesses to the next level.
Boasting over 100 attendees and after a panel discussion and successful case study from IncredABLE and Armagh, Banbridge, Craigavon Council, it didn’t take long for social enterprises to network with the decision makers from private and public sector businesses through the ‘Six Degrees of Separation’ activity. All attendees had a chance to showcase their work and their reason for being at the event, for some it was that they were ready to explore supply chain opportunities, while others suggested they wanted to understand procurement processes for future growth.
The private and public sectors joined the event as exhibitors, hosting an information stand for social enterprises to explore the opportunities available in the supply chain and become known to them as prospective suppliers.
The Social Enterprise Directory, which will be a direct gateway to purpose-driven organisations, went down a storm with attendees, with many commenting how useful it will be for their own business. This revolutionary tool will let organisations explore detailed profiles, connect with inspiring initiatives, and collaborate for positive change.
Economy Minister Conor Murphy said: “This new Interactive Social Enterprise Directory is a very welcome addition to the Social Enterprise eco-system. It is important that the opportunities created by the scoring of social value in procurement are fully taken advantage of. I very much hope the Directory leads to more partnerships between private and social enterprise sectors.
“I want to commend Social Enterprise NI for all they are doing to develop a sector which is very important to this society and to my Department.”
SENI CEO Colin Jess said: “The team in Social Enterprise NI have been working very hard to bring this directory to life over the last 2 years and ensuring that it isn’t just a directory listing but a place for the sector to brokerage relationships, message each other directly and put out calls for support or opportunities available to all those listed on the directory. I am delighted that this unique interactive platform is now live”.
