People in Orkney with a business idea that could make a positive difference in their community are invited to attend two free events designed to help aspiring social entrepreneurs turn their ideas into action.
Social enterprise support agency Firstport will host the events at the St Magnus Centre in Kirkwall on 30 September and 1 October, offering practical advice, local insights and information about funding and support available to community organisations and social enterprises.
The events will bring together local entrepreneurs, community organisations and business support providers to explore how social enterprise can help address local challenges, strengthen communities and create lasting impact.
Christine Fairbairn, Firstport’s Relationship Manager for the North of Scotland, said:
“Rural and island communities are known for getting things done, but no two places are the same. Across Orkney, people are already finding innovative ways to support their communities, and social enterprise can be a powerful tool for turning good ideas into lasting impact.
“These events are an opportunity for local people to hear from those who have already been on that journey, make connections and learn about the funding and support available. We hope anyone with an idea, no matter how early stage, will come along and join the conversation.”
Social enterprises are businesses that trade for a social or environmental purpose. Like other businesses, they generate income, but reinvest profits to create positive change in the communities they serve.
Firstport is Scotland’s agency for social enterprise. For almost 20 years, it has supported thousands of social entrepreneurs to start and grow organisations that use business to create social impact. Through programmes including the Social Entrepreneurs Fund, it provides funding, advice and practical support to help ideas become sustainable ventures.
Good Ideas Start Here: Wednesday, 30 September
Aimed at aspiring social entrepreneurs, existing social enterprises and community organisations looking to become more financially sustainable.
Attendees will hear from Firstport and local partners, including Scholes Chartered Accountants and Voluntary Action Orkney, gain practical advice on developing ideas, and learn about funding and support available to help them take the next step. The event will also feature local social entrepreneur Donna Cuthbertson from Orkney Dance and Fitness, who will share her experience of starting and growing her social enterprise, and the support she received from Firstport along the way. Donna founded Orkney Dance & Fitness in 2021, driven by a passion for providing accessible exercise classes to rural and island communities across Orkney. Through her social enterprise, she aims to reduce social isolation, improve wellbeing, and help people connect through fitness and movement.
Business for Good: Thursday 1 October.
Exploring how social enterprises are making a difference in communities across Scotland and why this approach to business continues to grow.
Through real-life examples and local perspectives, attendees will discover how organisations can use business to tackle social challenges, create sustainable income and deliver lasting benefits for their communities.
The events form part of Firstport’s commitment to ensuring people across Scotland can access the advice, funding and networks they need to develop solutions to local challenges. By bringing together entrepreneurs, community organisations and support providers, the events aim to strengthen local connections and create new opportunities for collaboration across Orkney.
Donna Cuthbertson, founder of Orkney Dance & Fitness, said:
“I had an idea and a passion, and Firstport has been pivotal in making my dreams come to life. Come along to the events and hear all about my experience of accessing support and growing our impact with the support of the programmes Firstport has to offer.”
Anyone interested in starting a social enterprise, developing a community project or learning more about using business to create positive social impact is encouraged to attend.
Places are free, but booking is required. To book a place, visit https://events.humanitix.com/host/firstport
Leave a Reply