Social Economy West Accelerator Programme

Turn your project into a thriving organisation	Increase your income and your impact	Access other support from the West of England Combined Authority

Register for an info session

Meet the programme manager, ask questions and find out more about the programme:

• Monday 15th September 1 pm – 2 pm – Register here
• Tuesday 16th September 5:45 pm – 6.45 pm – Register her

The programme

The Social Economy West Accelerator Programme is designed for leaders in the West of England who are focused on refining their strategy, scaling their impact, and building lasting peer networks.

What you get out of the programme:

• Explore opportunities to develop income streams, including creating new products/ services.
• Explore opportunities to scale.
• Understand how to sustain and manage risk.
• Increase your understanding of financial management and how to build cash reserves.
• Gain an understanding of what good business practice looks like through exploring the Good Employment Charter.
• Develop and strengthen your ability to achieve your business goals.

Unlike other programmes, this is tailored specifically for purpose-led organisations in the West of England. With content and support shaped by the region’s unique social, economic, and environmental landscape, you’ll gain the tools to grow your organisation while tackling the challenges facing your community.

“I took away valuable insights, feedback and inspiration which helped me to focus on a more realistic approach, stay positive while not giving up on exploring new ideas which might work in future”

What you learn and when

We will achieve this through 11 learning days spread over 9 months (4 in-person full days and 7 online half days) based on the following learning themes:

• Product/Service Innovation
• Financial Resilience
• Developing income streams
• Market making
• Scaling
• Social Value for Public Sector Contracts
• Social Investment
• Leadership
• Peer Connecting and Peer Coaching

The programme runs from November 2025 to August 2026.

Expert business advice

During these sessions, you will hear from business experts, to learn from their experiences, gain insights and learn new skills.

In addition, each student will receive a 1hr online 1:1 action clinic with your cohort facilitator and a 1hr online discussion with a Business Development Support Panel.

Gateway to more support in the West of England

Through the programme’s partners, including the West of England Combined Authority, Business West and the Good Employment Charter, participants will be able to access wider opportunities and support to grow their organisations.

Grow and learn from a new network

As well as connecting with people across the social economy in the West of England and the programme partners (above) you will join a cohort of others like you, changemakers, social entrepreneurs and impact leaders. You will support each other, learn from each other and form new and wide-reaching connections..

Who’s it for

Charities, third-sector organisations, social enterprises and co-operatives:

• Based in Bristol, Bath & North East Somerset or South Gloucestershire.
• Have been trading for at least 3 years.
• Are looking to grow and become financially and environmentally sustainable.   

Applicants need to have influence in their organisations. The person attending the programme should be the Founder, CEO or Development Lead and be able to directly put the learning into practice in their organisation.  

How to apply

1. Register your interest and we will send you the programme guidance notes and application form.
2. (Optional) Attend an info session.
3. Read the guidance notes.
4. Apply using the online application form.
5. Complete and submit your application by 12pm on the 13th October.