Choose the right structure for your social enterprise

Introduction

Guide

Social enterprises are businesses that trade to address social problems and improve communities or the environment. They make their money from selling goods and services, but they reinvest their profits back into the business or the local community.

Social enterprises can take on a variety of legal forms. You should carefully consider the various options to ensure that you choose the legal structure that most suits your social enterprise in terms of management style and mission. Although professional advice is not always necessary, it is a good idea to seek the opinion of an expert before coming to a decision.

This guide outlines the various social enterprise legal forms including:

It also includes advice and support for setting up and running a social enterprise in Northern Ireland.

Free business start-up support

Access free start-up business support from your local council. If you have a great idea but you're not sure how to turn it into a business, or you have already started out in business and require mentorship on your next steps, Go Succeed Start experts will help you to create a business plan, seek funding and put all the foundations in place to get your business up and running.

Complete a short enquiry form or call 0800 027 0639 to register for this free advice and guidance.