Selnet

Selnet is the Social Enterprise Network for Lancashire.

We believe that social enterprise can transform lives and change the world. We help Lancashire’s social entrepreneurs achieve ambitions, respond to challenges, tackle inequalities and empower local communities.

Since 2007, we have been supporting social enterprises across Lancashire, Blackpool and Blackburn with Darwen to connect, develop and grow through:

• Our vibrant, impactful membership network
• Specialist business start-up and growth advice and support
• Securing opportunities for our members
• Developing and leading partnerships
• Promotion and representation on a local, regional and national basis

Membership
As a network we believe in making connections. Selnet’s Trade Directory showcases the range of goods and services available from our social enterprise members, categorised into their specialist areas. It is intended to help new customers, commissioners and partners to engage more easily with individual organisations that provide real social value and community impact to investments in goods or services.

We are a social enterprise, run by our members to meet the needs of our members. We represent Lancashire’s social business interests at national, regional and local levels through our wide network of stakeholders and partners.

Business support
Selnet recognises the importance of good advice to help you develop your social enterprise. While there are a lot of similarities between social enterprises and private businesses, there are a lot of differences too.

Selnet has a bank of business advisors who can offer a tailored package of advice, to suit your social enterprise. Our Social Enterprise Specialists are all experienced social enterprise practitioners, who are qualified to the National Standards.

Between them they have a range of specialisms in all business areas e.g. business strategy and growth, marketing and financial planning. They have experience of working with SMEs and social enterprises whatever the legal structure and in all business sectors.

What one top tip would you give to a business owner embarking on a growth plan?
Network! Embarking on a growth journey is less intimidating and more exciting when you’re with other people in a similar position. It’s important to seek advice from a qualified advisor who is familiar with your industry – the earlier the better! They can help you with handy tips, shortcuts and resources and save you time and energy that you can invest in creating an efficient and effective growth plan.

Why is Lancashire a great place to grow a business?
Lancashire has a strong entrepreneurial spirit, and a thriving social enterprise sector with hundreds of businesses trading for a social purpose.

Why are you backing Boost Business Lancashire?
Boost brings together lots of great resources, opportunities and experts in one place, all to help new and established businesses to flourish!