Social Enterprise Exchange
Connecting Social Enterprise across the Midland’s Just Transition region
Introduction to Social Enterprise Exchange – a Regional Coordination Project for the Just Transition Region
This project adopts a regional approach to ensure that the needs of the Just Transition region are met effectively and sustainably. By fostering collaboration among all stakeholders—including social enterprises, local authorities, and other key players—our goal is to promote a vibrant and inclusive social economy that benefits the region as a whole.
A particular focus will be placed on the role of social enterprises. We aim to enhance their visibility and impact, positioning the region as a dynamic hub for social innovation. This involves not only supporting the growth and development of social enterprises but also branding the region as a leader in the social economy on national and international stages.
In partnership with local authorities, we will work to streamline support mechanisms and ensure the efficient use of resources. Our efforts will also facilitate regional entities in accessing EU funding, maximizing the opportunities for growth and investment.
Education and youth engagement are key to fostering long-term success. To this end, we will increase awareness of social enterprises by engaging young people through educational initiatives at second- and third-level campuses across the region. By integrating this into the education system, we will empower the next generation to contribute to the region’s social and economic transformation.
Social Enterprise Exchange Regional Report 2024
Thank you to our SEE regional partners
The ‘Social Enterprise Exchange – a Regional Approach’ project is co-funded by the Government of Ireland and the European Union through the EU Just Transition Fund Programme 2021-2027.
Social Enterprise Exchange is supported by the Just Transition Fund and by the Carbon Tax Fund
Our Mission
Our Social Enterprise Exchange Project Mission is,
- To empower the Just Transition region by fostering a vibrant and inclusive social economy through collaboration among stakeholders, including social enterprises and local authorities.
- To enhance the visibility and impact of social enterprises, positioning our region as a global leader in social innovation.
- To maximise growth and regional investment by creating alignment on support mechanisms and facilitating access to EU funding.
- To inspire the next generation of youth through education and initiatives that integrate social enterprise awareness into academic curricula, ensuring a sustainable and transformative future for our community and region.
Get Involved
We’re actively looking for Social Enterprises in Roscommon, Laois, Longford, Westmeath, East Galway & Offaly. If you are a Social Enterprise within the Midland region, get in touch with the SEE Team. Our team is on hand to discuss and document your initiative.
We would love to hear from you.
Steering Group
Louise Lennon
Louise Lennon is the Policy and Communications Officer with IRL since June 2016. Louise’s work includes engaging members and rural communities to inform IRL’s policy positions for all Government Departments.
Anne Graham
Community & Green Finance Manager (Community Loans Manager)
Western Development Commission
Chris Gordon
Chris MM Gordon MBS BScTheorPhys DipCorpGov DipIOD FInstM. Chris is the CEO of the Irish Social Enterprise Network (Socent.ie), Managing Partner of Collaboration Ireland, and a Teaching Fellow of Trinity Business School.
Steve Dolan
Steve Dolan is the CEO of Galway Rural Development, one of the largest local development companies in Ireland with a turnover of €11m and more than 60 full-time staff. An MBA graduate of the University of Galway, Steve has been recognised with a Ministerial Award for promoting integration and social inclusion and a Presidential Commendation for community work.
Working Group
Catherine Kane
Catherine Kane | Senior Enterprise Development Officer | LEO Longford
Liam Ramsbottom
Community Development Officer
Laois Partnership Company
Annette Barr Jordan
Senior Executive Officer , Chief Officer, Town Regeneration Officer, Community Development Section, Westmeath County Council
Cathriona MacCarthy
Head of community at Roscommon CoCo.
Contact Our Team
Our team is on hand. Reach out with any questions you might have about Social Enterprise Exchange, or if you would like to be involved. We look forward to hearing from you.
