New opportunities for social entrepreneurs

One hundred and fifty social entrepreneurs from across the country are set to improve their local communities after securing places on a new Lloyds Banking Group scheme.

Successful enterprises include a company offering affordable recycled carpeting and an initiative encouraging an entrepreneurial spirit in schools, with the winners selected so far having demonstrated their determination to improve their local communities, and fight social inequality and deprivation.

The programme provides financial support via grants and funds educational training at one of the eight Schools for Social Entrepreneurs (SSE).

Over 750 new (start up) and existing (scale up) projects should benefit from the scheme over the next five years.

As well as funding for a placement at an SSE, each student in the Start Up category can benefit from a grant of £4,000 to support the  development of their project, while those in the Scale Up category can receive up to £15,000.

Mentor will be provided by Lloyds Banking Group for each candidate for a period of 12 months.