Starting a social enterprise in Ireland involves several key steps, combining the principles of business with a social or environmental mission. Here’s a practical step-by-step guide:
Clarify Your Social Mission
Define the social, environmental, or community issue you aim to address. Ensure your mission is clear, measurable, and central to your business model.
Example: Creating jobs for people with disabilities, reducing textile waste, or delivering mental health workshops in rural communities.
Choose a Legal Structure
You can register your social enterprise as one of the following in Ireland:
Company Limited by Guarantee (CLG) – Most common for social enterprises.
Co-operative – Suitable for community-led initiatives.
Company Limited by Shares (Ltd) – Less common but possible.
Charitable Status (optional) – If you qualify and want access to certain grants or tax exemptions.
Tip: Most social enterprises opt for a CLG with a clear constitution outlining their social mission
Write a Constitution or Governing Document
This outlines your aims, how profits are reinvested, and how the organisation is run. It’s required if you register as a CLG or apply for funding.
Register the Business
With the Companies Registration Office
(CRO): https://www.cro.ie/
Applyy for a Revenue (TAX) Number
Open a business bank account
Develop a Business Plan
Include:
Your mission and impact goals
- Market research
- Products or services
- Marketing and sales strategy
- Financial forecasts
- Social impact measurement
Access Support and Funding
Useful Supports in Ireland:
Local Development Companies / SICAP
- LEOs – for mentoring, training, and micro-grants
- Irish Social Enterprise Network
- Social Enterprise Republic of Ireland
- Rethink Ireland – for impact funding
- Department of Rural and Community Development
- Social Innovation Fund Ireland
- Tip: Check Pobal and Dormant Accounts Fund for relevant funding streams
Build a Team and Governance
Form a voluntary board or steering group
Put policies in place (e.g. safeguarding, data protection, financial controls)
- Define roles and responsibilities
- Start Operating & Measuring Impact
Launch your service or product
- Promote through local networks, social media, and community events
- Use tools like SROI (Social Return on Investment) or Theory of Change to measure your impact
Join Networks
Social Enterprise Ireland
- Irish Social Enterprise Network (ISEN)
- European Social Enterprise Network
- Local social enterprise or community forums
- Stay Compliant & Sustainable
Submit annual returns to the CRO
- Maintain proper accounts and governance practices
- Reinforce your social impact through storytelling and reporting