The University of Ulster is set to showcase the innovative work it is doing with social enterprises across Northern Ireland at the Magee campus next week.

In one of the opening events of the university’s inaugural Ulster Business Festival, leading business experts will reveal the key to developing a successful social enterprise.

Guest speakers from organisations such as Dungiven-based ‘Hands that Talk’, who have already benefitted from collaborating with Ulster’s Office of Innovation and the Faculty of Arts, will also highlight how the university’s support has made a real difference to the north-west.

Kerry Patterson, Business Development Manager at the University of Ulster, said: “The Office of Innovation works with businesses across Northern Ireland and we are also committed to supporting business growth in social enterprise.

“This event will showcase some of the examples of our support through a number of initiatives such as Invest NI innovation vouchers, the Science Shop, placements and bespoke training.

“Attendees will hear directly from a range of social enterprises, including Hands that Talk, Cunamh ICT, Pavestones and Triangle Housing, who will talk about their experience of working with the University of Ulster and gaining our support.

“Our target audience for this event are social enterprises from across Northern Ireland, but especially those based in the north-west, and also key stakeholders.

“We would also like to reach out to any community and voluntary groups who are thinking about setting up a social enterprise. There’s something for everyone in terms of the third sector.”

‘Showcasing Innovation in Social Enterprise’ will take place at 12pm on Wednesday 8 May at the University of Ulster’s Magee campus.

Registration is also available online at: www.ulster.ac.uk/ulsterbusinessfestival .