Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 7 April 2022
54. Deputy John Lahart asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the role that his Department plays in supporting social enterprises; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18481/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraResponsibility for social enterprises lies primarily with the Department of Rural and Community Development, which provides funding to social enterprises as defined by the National Social Enterprise Policy 2019 – 2022, with a view to complementing mainstream business supports.
The Local Enterprise Offices offer a ‘first-stop-shop’ providing advice and guidance, financial assistance, and other supports to those wishing to start, grow or pivot their business and act as a ‘signposting’ service for all government supports available to the SME sector including those businesses that are classified as social enterprises.
The Local Enterprise Offices can assist in the establishment and/or development of new and existing enterprises (limited company, individuals/sole trader, cooperatives and partnerships) provided that such enterprises/projects are capable of attaining commercial viability and subject to the following eligibility criteria:
- The enterprise must not employ more than 10 people;
- The enterprise must be established, registered and operate within the geographic location of the Local Enterprise Office;
- The enterprise must operate in the commercial sphere;
- The enterprise must demonstrate a market for the product/service;
- The enterprise must have potential for growth in domestic and/or export markets and also potential for new job creation.
Furthermore, the Local Enterprise Offices also offer one to one mentoring and a wide range of high-quality business and management development programmes to any small business, including those that would be considered social enterprises. For further information on the supports available see the Local Enterprise Office Website.
