North Belfast Partnership - Social Economy Training
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Course Introduction
Module 1 - What is a Social Economy?
Module 2 - The Idea
Module 3 - The Organisation
Module 4 - The Legalities
Module 5 - Finance
Module 6 - Sales and Marketing
Module 7 - Social Audit
Module 8 - Premises
Module 9 - Equipment
Module 10 - Staff
Module 11 - Business Plan

Accessibility Information

EU funded

8. Decide If Your Social Enterprise Needs It’s Own Premises

Choosing business premises is a big decision, but most people have limited experience in this area. For social enterprises in particular, this can be a daunting prospect.

The first question you must ask is:
Does your social enterprise need premises?

If the answer is yes here is a must do, choose a location which suits your customers first and foremost, followed by your employees and suppliers.

Do you need a prime street location? Or is a business park more suitable?
You should contact your Local Enterprise Agency, North City Business Centre, 2 Duncairn Gardens, Belfast, BT15 2GGL, 028 9074 7470, who will advise you on securing your premises.

Where are your potential customers? Where is there least competition, or should you, like antique shops and estate agents, be near to similar businesses?
Prices are lower in areas with vacant property, but vacant property may be a sign that the area is run down with limited trade.

Do you need to be near transport links, such as a motorway, railway station or bus stop?
Can your customers and employees reach the premises easily?
Will you be able to get supplies and make deliveries easily?
How will the location affect employees? Will you be able to recruit the staff you need locally?

Do you need to be near a bank, post office or local parking?

How important is the image your social enterprise project?
What will your customers think?

However, setting up in certain locations may qualify you for grants or other financial incentives. There are a number of designated disadvantaged areas in Northern Ireland which qualify for exemption from stamp duty when buying a property. To find out if your location is such an area log onto www.inlandrevenue.gov.uk/so and enter your postcode which will tell you if you qualify for stamp duty relief.

 

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