Social Enterprise Exchange in conjunction with the Irish Cluster Centre are delighted to announce the launch of the Just Transition: A Regional Approach project which is set to drive significant social and economic transformation in regions most impacted by the transition to a low-carbon economy. Through collaboration with social enterprises, local authorities, and other key stakeholders, the project aims to build a vibrant and inclusive social economy that addresses regional needs sustainably and effectively. The project is Pobal funded through the EU Just Transition fund.
This initiative adopts a regional approach to ensure that local challenges are met with tailored solutions, ensuring the equitable distribution of economic benefits. Central to this effort is the empowerment of social enterprises, whose visibility and impact will be enhanced, positioning the region as a dynamic hub for social innovation on both the national and international stage.
Key Objectives of the Project:
- Empowering Social Enterprises: The project will focus on supporting the growth and development of social enterprises, ensuring they play a central role in shaping the region’s sustainable economy. By highlighting their contributions to social and environmental goals, the project aims to brand the region as a leader in the social economy on a global scale.
- Collaborating with Local Authorities: In partnership with local authorities, the project will streamline support mechanisms, ensure the efficient use of resources, and promote policies that bolster social enterprises. This collaboration aims to foster a supportive ecosystem where social enterprises can thrive and grow, benefiting communities at large.
- Accessing EU Funding: One of the project’s priorities is to help regional entities access European Union funding, maximizing opportunities for investment, growth, and innovation. This will allow the region to harness EU resources to fuel green industries, job creation, and overall sustainable development.
- Education and Youth Engagement: A major focus will be on increasing awareness of social enterprises among young people. Through educational initiatives at second- and third-level institutions across the region, the project will integrate the principles of social enterprise into the education system. This will empower the next generation to engage with and contribute to the region’s social and economic transformation.
Gabrielle McFadden, Project Manager for Just Transition: A Regional Approach, spoke about the transformative potential of the initiative:
“This project is about building a future that is not only green and sustainable but also fair and inclusive. By working with social enterprises and local authorities, we are creating a regional model that ensures long-term success and positions our region as a leader in the social economy. We are delighted with the support of the Steering Group, made up of members of Irish Rural link, Western Development Committee, Galway Rural Development and Irish Social Enterprise Network. With it being a regional approach we are very fortunate to be working with the Local Authorities of Laois, Longford, Westmeath and Roscommon. We hope to have a few more in the coming weeks.”
Supporting Regional Growth and Innovation
With its focus on social enterprises and local governance, the Just Transition: A Regional Approach project aims to ensure that the transition to a low-carbon economy also drives social equity and economic resilience. By enhancing the role of social enterprises, this initiative will not only create new jobs and opportunities but also promote innovative social solutions that address the unique challenges facing transitioning regions.
The project is committed to ensuring that all stakeholders, including community organizations, local businesses, and youth, play an active role in shaping the region’s future. By focusing on collaboration and innovation, the initiative will set a global example of how regions can transition to a sustainable economy while supporting social enterprises and community well-being.
For more information about the Just Transition: A Regional Approach project, visit XXXXXXXXXX contact Gabrielle@socialenterpriseexchange.ie
Media Contact:
Gabrielle McFadden
Project Manager
Social Enterprise Exchange0872636728
Gabrielle@socialenterpriseechange.ie
website XXXXXXXXX
About us
Social Enterprise Exchange is committed to fostering sustainable development and social equity through innovative partnerships and community-driven solutions. By collaborating with social enterprises, local governments, and stakeholders, we aim to create lasting social and economic change that benefits the entire region.
