SEEE to deliver a new impact business growth programme for the Third Sector in Cambridgeshire.
A recent event saw third sector organisations and local authority representatives gather to hear about a new three-year business growth programme starting in Cambridgeshire thanks to Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority funding (via the Shared Prosperity Fund).
The Vision Programme is managed by Social Enterprise East of England (SEEE) and aims to support the growth of the social economy in Cambridgeshire, shaping a future where businesses serve everyone – in a way that protects natural resources for future generations and shapes resilient, inclusive, and vibrant communities.
SEEE is working with local delivery partners to stimulate business growth and social impact in Cambs social enterprises and charities who are looking to trade. This local business support and engagement will include local organisations Allia, Cambridgeshire ACRE, Cambridge CVS, Peterborough CVS and Support Cambridgeshire – all working together to signpost to key information helping people start or grow their organisation or business.
In the first year of a three year programme, The Vision programme will deliver a dedicated website for the Cambs third sector (launching September 2025). The Vision Portal website will be a one-stop destination providing a central location for resources and signposting to programme activities and partners. The programme will also offer training, coaching and mentoring to organisations as well as specific workshops and networking opportunities for the sector to come together and share ideas.
Allia has already started a business programme as part of the Vision programme called ‘Start Strong’ which saw two cohorts in Papworth Everard (at the Printworks Social Enterprise Hub) and at Peterborough start 6 weeks of concentrated training and guidance to get them ready to launch their socially motivated organisations. Allia’s programme has been designed to bridge the gap between informal community work and registered social enterprises and will run again later this year (click here to register interest).
“Social enterprises are pivotal to growing a fairer economy. Many passionate changemakers struggle to navigate the final hurdle of formally establishing their enterprises. Allia’s Start Strong programme directly addresses this by providing that crucial combination of expert knowledge, practical tools, and personal mentorship that turns great ideas into registered, operational social businesses or charities.” Deb Lee, Managing Director, Social Enterprise East of England.
The Vision Programme will have an official opening launch event for the Cambridgeshire third sector on 2nd October 2025. For more information or to register your interest email admin@seee.co.uk