SOCIAL ENTERPRISE

Empowering Ethnic Minority Communities Through Social Enterprise
We believe in the power of business to create positive change. That’s why our programme is dedicated to supporting ethnic minority individuals and community groups across Scotland to explore, launch and grow their own social enterprises. By delivering inclusive, hands-on workshops and building pathways into national support networks, we’re helping to unlock entrepreneurial potential and build stronger, fairer communities.

KeyAchievements

72%

of social enterprises in Scotland actively reinvest their profits to tackle social issues.(Source: Social Enterprise Census Scotland, 2021)

As Scotland becomes increasingly culturally diverse and vibrant, more and more ethnic minority-run businesses are starting up and thriving. Many ethnic minority-led not-for-profit organisations are already active in some of Scotland’s most disadvantaged communities — yet they often remain under-supported by mainstream services.

Social enterprises aren’t just businesses — they’re a force for good.

About Social Enterprise

This programme is delivered through Just Enterprise, Scotland’s national support programme for social enterprise development.
If you have a business idea that fits the social enterprise model — one that combines trading with a social or environmental mission — then Just Enterprise can help. Through free one-to-one guidance, group-based support, and tailored training sessions, the Start-Up team offers a range of services designed to meet you where you are.

Whether you’re at the early stages of developing an idea or are already volunteering or working with a social enterprise or enterprising charity, we offer:

Group workshops to learn, connect and network with other social entrepreneurs
One-to-one business support tailored to your needs, including help with:
Market research
Business planning
Financial planning
Marketing strategies

You can even apply for support to explore income-generating opportunities for your existing charity.

Frequently Asked Questions

What support is available through this programme?

We provide tailored awareness events, workshops, and one-to-one support designed specifically for Scotland’s ethnic minority communities. Support is jargon-free, culturally sensitive, and focused on real-world application.

What makes this programme unique?
We take our work directly into communities — engaging locally, listening deeply, and delivering practical support where it’s needed most. We’re the only agency in the social enterprise space doing this targeted outreach.
What do your awareness-raising events cover?
Our workshops are designed for beginners and early-stage entrepreneurs. Topics include:
• What is a social enterprise and how to start one
• The motivations behind social business
• Understanding legal structures
• Funding streams and how to access them
• Turning your vision into action: Aspire, Aim and Achieve
How many events will be held?

We’ll be delivering three awareness-raising events across Scotland. Each one is packed with practical insight and opportunities for connection.

Who is it for?

Anyone from an ethnic minority background in Scotland with an interest in social enterprise — whether you have an early idea or an existing initiative.

Start Something That Matters

Are you ready to turn your idea into a business that creates real social change? Join one of our upcoming awareness events, or connect with our team for personalised one-to-one support through Just Enterprise.

Key Contact

Yasmin Ali
Social Enterprise Lead
Mobile: 07758 134849
Email: yasminali@cemvoscotland.org.uk

Or register directly for support:
https://justenterprise.org/start-up-one-to-one-registration/
Take the first step toward building a business that makes a difference.