The Future is Social

In 2019, the Rank Foundation and the School for Social Entrepreneurs Dartington (SSE), supported nine Social Enterprises in Plymouth. They provided training and funding to these organisations, to help create positive change in some of Plymouth’s most disadvantaged areas.

On Thursday 27^th February 2020, crowds gathered at The Plot in Plymouth, where people came together to celebrate the success of the RISE Match Trading Programme over the past 12 months.

The event gave people the opportunity to showcase their work, this included things such as food stalls, information stands, speeches, videos, photography, live demonstrations, virtual reality and a sewing workshop.

“The event this evening, where we are celebrating the outcomes of the first RISE Match Trading programme, are evidence that the programme is having a tremendous effect.”

Phil Davies, Rank Associate for Plymouth

There are over 200 Social Enterprises and Community Businesses in Plymouth, who collectively employ over 9,000 people in the local area. As a result, this has a positive impact on the city; not only does it give individuals jobs within a meaningful sector, but it also means that these businesses can continue to grow and develop.

Now, 10 new organisations have joined the RISE Match Trading Programme, taking the total to 19 participants. The new group will have the opportunity to get together with the original 9 organisations throughout the year to share their experiences as well as looking at opportunities to collaborate with one another.

The Future is Social event was a great environment for like-minded individuals to get together and share ideas, celebrate achievements, and simply cheer each other on.

An exciting year lies ahead, and we can’t wait to see all the great things these organisations continue to do in the city.

For more information on the RISE Match Trading Programme, click here.