The first Social Enterprise Award ceremony in Ireland has taken place at the Wood Quay Venue, Dublin City Council, Civic Offices in Dublin 8 today.
The Social Enterprise Grant Scheme was established to raise awareness and reward the important work being done by Social Entrepreneurs.
The Inner City Enterprise, (ICE) formed a partnership with the Local Enterprise Office (LEO) Dublin City, the Irish Social Enterprise Network (ISNE), the Carmichael Centre and Dublin City University to promote practical business supports to social enterprises in Dublin city
Councillor Daithí Doolan deputising for An tArdmhéara, Críona Ní Dhálaigh and Minister of State for Rural Economic Development and Social Enterprise, Ann Phelan TD, presented Social Enterprise Grants to each of the four winners.
Dome Grown, Eco Mattress Recycling, Walkinstown Green Social Enterprise and Thriftify that were selected as winners by the ICE Evaluation Committee.
Chief Executive Officer at ICE, Evanne Kilmurray commented, "The rationale for getting the Scheme off the ground in the first place was that ICE and LEO felt that there was a gap in the market regarding the accessing of very small flexible grants that would kick-start some social enterprises in Dublin City.
"The Launch of the Social Enterprise Grant Scheme this week-through the four Awardees-is about highlighting the practical way that small grants and mentoring can make that vital difference.
"The fostering and developing of a diverse range of social enterprises in the City will play a key role in rejuvenating many of the local communities and have long lasting impacts in terms of job creation and provision of real social services."
Councillor Daithí Doolan added, "It is vitally important that we showcase the significant contribution made by social enterprise. Social enterprise can play an essential part in any future economic recovery. The award will allow the enterprises to develop their plans which in turn will bring benefits to the local community."
Source: www.businessworld.ie
