In recognition of how the pandemic is already affecting local communities and our environment, the Investec Beyond Business incubator programme has extended its application deadline to capture enterprising ideas conceived in response to Covid-19.
Social enterprises are businesses that are changing the world for the better. They follow a traditional business model, however they aim to reinvest or donate profits to create positive social change.
The coronavirus pandemic has had a profound effect on all of us, impacting our mental health, lifestyles and work. We also know that Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic groups are at a much higher risk of contracting and dying from Covid-19, particularly if they come from low income households. With these impacts in mind, Investec Beyond Business hopes to support east London innovators and business ideas that support those adversely affected by the pandemic.
About the programme
Based at the Bromley by Bow Centre in Tower Hamlets, Investec Beyond Business is an award-winning support programme for emerging social enterprises in east London. Successful applicants receive up to £20,000 in funding as well as training and support to help get great business ideas off the ground.
Since Investec became the sole funder of the programme in 2011, 47 new social enterprises in Hackney, Tower Hamlets and Newham have been established, 80% of which are still in business. More than 300 jobs have been created in east London and a combined turnover of £5m has been generated.
“Investec was built in the spirit of entrepreneurship, and we’re proud to support promising entrepreneurs who want to make a sustainable, positive impact in the local community. Working in partnership with the Bromley by Bow Centre for more than ten years, to deliver this award-winning programme has been a rewarding experience to say the least. We have had the opportunity to support and help grow 47 social enterprises who have gone on to create more than 300 jobs in our communities. We couldn’t be prouder”.
– Razia Nizamuddin, Investec
An impressive alumni of social enterprises
Fair exchange
Dot Dot Dot
How one of our Investec Beyond Business social enterprises is creating stronger communities.
More than food
Fat Macy’s
How one of our Investec Beyond Business social enterprises is supporting people through cooking.
Bespoke mental health support
Find A Balance
How one of our Investec Beyond Business social enterprises is supporting individuals and families who suffer with mental health issues.
Combating loneliness
InCommon
How one of our Investec Beyond Business social enterprises is bringing generations together.
Striving for the best
Tutors United
How one of our Investec Beyond Business social enterprises is helping pupils from low-income backgrounds get ahead.
Better supply chains
Supply Change
2018 Investec Beyond Business winners connect social enterprises to organisations looking for goods and services.
How to apply
To be eligible for the programme, Investec Beyond Business is looking for businesses with a clear social purpose, such as employment for people experiencing barriers to work, youth training, healthy living and local environmental improvements. Your business must be under one year old, but can also be at the idea stage.
Find out more about the programme here and to apply, return an Expression of Interest form by 5pm on 30th October 2020.
For more details, contact Kim Hayman: kim.hayman@bbbc.org.uk and 07706 687671.
