DfE and the Social Economy
The Department for the Economy (DfE) leads on the development of social economy policy for Northern Ireland on behalf of the Northern Ireland Executive.
DfE's role in Social Economy
Developing the social economy sector has been a priority for the NI Executive for some time and the Executive is well aware of the important and unique contribution which the sector can and does make to the local economy.
DfE has always recognised the importance of supporting social enterprises and has responsibility for social economy policy on behalf of the NI Executive. The local councils have responsibility for social enterprise after it was transferred to them in 2015 as part of the Review of Public Administration. DfE also provides a grant to promote the social economy sector through the development and implementation of a Social Enterprise Work Programme (SEWP).
DfE and the NI Executive recognise that the social enterprise sector has been and continues to be absolutely vital in helping our society to get through some very recent difficult times and will have an important part to play in the recovery phase and the longer term building of a stronger NI economy.
Support for the Social Economy
Social Enterprise Work Programme
DfE funds a Social Enterprise Work Programme (SEWP) which delivers strategic support to the social enterprise sector. The Work Programme is currently delivered on the Department’s behalf by Social Enterprise Northern Ireland (SENI).
In 2024, DfE increased grant funding for the SEWP by more than 50%, a reflection of the importance of the sector and the contribution it makes to the economy and to the wider community.
SENI is the official membership body for social enterprises in Northern Ireland. They aim to strengthen and grow the social enterprise sector in NI and support businesses at all stages of their journey.
Social Enterprise NI Awards 2024
The awards, organised by Social Enterprise Northern Ireland, celebrate the amazing work and impact of social enterprises across the region.
The Awards shines the light on the talented individuals, teams and organisations who are making a real difference, changing lives, building inclusive communities, and making a positive impact in society, all while making a profit through their respective business.
Winners will be revealed on Friday 8th November at a gala award ceremony in the Crowne Plaza Hotel, Shaws Bridge Belfast, hosted by BBC radio presenter and Social Enterprise NI ambassador Cate Conway.