New collaboration to pioneer social enterprise accreditation in Ireland

We are excited to announce a new partnership with Social Impact Ireland to introduce social enterprise accreditation in the Republic of Ireland.

We will be working in collaboration to enhance and grow the Irish social enterprise sector through the introduction of the Social Enterprise Mark accreditation standard, which enables social enterprises to gain recognition that will build their capabilities as competitive, sustainable businesses, dedicated to maximising social impact.

Social Impact Ireland aims to separate and elevate social enterprise, by fully supporting individuals and enterprises to reach their full potential, impacting communities across all regions.

They provide valuable incubator programmes, workshops and events specifically designed to support and nurture social entrepreneurs in their entrepreneurial journeys; to connect them with the wider business community and to help them become viable and financially independent. They believe in the power and the potential of each individual to make a real difference that will benefit their community and beyond, and make a positive social impact.

Social Impact Ireland is now conducting a pilot project to support six social enterprises through the process of applying for accreditation from Social Enterprise Mark CIC.

Speaking about the partnership our Managing Director Lucy Findlay said: “We are really excited to be working with Social Impact Ireland to pioneer the Social Enterprise Mark in Ireland. The current worldwide health and economic crisis has shown that there is more of an appetite than ever for the formation of businesses that can evidence social impact as their raison d’etre. The Social Enterprise Mark proves those credentials in a world where actions must speak louder than words.”

Pauline Gannon, Director of Social Purpose and Impact at Social Impact Ireland, said:

“We are incredibly privileged to work with Social Enterprise Mark CIC to bring their worldwide recognised Social Enterprise Mark to Ireland. A momentous moment in the history of the social enterprise sector here in Ireland and a turning point for all involved in the sector. Bringing recognition and credibility to those who work with impact at the heart of what they do.”

The Social Enterprise Mark was officially launched at online launch event on Social Enterprise Day (19th November).