Launched in March 2023, the Thanet Social Enterprise Boost Programme has been instrumental in promoting and supporting the growth of social enterprises and entrepreneurs in the district. The programme offers fully funded, tailored support to help participants scale existing enterprises or launch new social ventures that make a meaningful impact within their communities.
“We’re proud to continue championing social enterprise in Thanet,” said Kirsty Hawkins, Director at Social Enterprise Kent.
“With this extension, we can build on the progress made since 2023 and unlock even more potential in the local community.”
Those taking part in the programme benefit from personalised one-to-one mentoring and business support delivered by experienced Social Enterprise Advisors. This includes guidance on areas such as business planning, marketing strategy, finance, funding, and social impact reporting. Regular networking events and workshops offer the chance to meet like-minded people, team up on ideas, and learn from each other. Eligible social entrepreneurs and enterprises also have the opportunity to apply for onward grants, helping them fund projects that generate positive social or environmental outcomes within Thanet.
The programme is open to both aspiring social entrepreneurs and established social enterprises that have been operating for less than five years and are delivering activities or services that provide social or environmental benefits within Thanet. Eligibility criteria apply, and interested individuals and organisations are encouraged to visit the Social Enterprise Kent website for more information.
The extension of the Social Enterprise Boost Fund reflects the UK Government’s continued commitment to expanding the social enterprise sector in targeted areas. The fund supports the creation of new social enterprises and strengthens early-stage organisations, while enabling local authorities and the voluntary and community sector to implement sustainable systems that encourage long-term social enterprise growth.
Social Enterprise Kent remains dedicated to empowering social enterprises and entrepreneurs in Thanet, providing the tools, support, and guidance they need to deliver lasting positive change in the community.
About the Social Enterprise Boost Fund
The Social Enterprise Boost Fund is a UK Government initiative designed to stimulate and accelerate social enterprise activity in disadvantaged areas of England. Launched in early 2023, the fund was initially set to run until March 2025 but has now been extended to March 2026, with an additional £1 million allocated across the four delivery areas.
Objectives of the Fund include supporting the creation and development of social enterprises in target areas, enabling local authorities and voluntary sectors to develop sustainable systems for growth, and building an evidence base to understand the impact of social enterprise on local communities and economies.