On Friday 17th October, iSE marked a remarkable milestone: 25 years of driving social enterprise, innovation and inclusive economic growth across Birmingham and the West Midlands. Hosted at Trowers & Hamlins, the evening brought together generations of changemakers…from iSE founders and alumni to this year’s Social Economy Drive finalists, for an unforgettable night of stories, connection and shared purpose.
A Legacy of Impact
For a quarter of a century, iSE has stood at the heart of Birmingham’s social economy, helping thousands of social entrepreneurs turn ideas into impact. From pioneering the Women’s Enterprise Hub to championing inclusive growth and community wealth building, iSE’s journey is woven into the very fabric of the region’s social enterprise movement.
As iSE’s founder Sarah Crawley Beaumont OBE was honoured during the evening, her visionary leadership reminded everyone how one idea backed by belief and community, can transform an entire ecosystem.
Inspiring Voices, Shared Vision
The night was filled with reflection and forward-thinking conversation from an inspiring lineup of speakers – Sylwia Juranek , Drew Currie, Sallie Ryan, Birgit Kehrer and Denise Morris who shared heartfelt insights on impact, innovation and legacy.
Their stories sparked conversations about what comes next: how the next generation of social enterprises can continue to create a fairer, greener and more connected economy for all.
And of course, the evening wouldn’t have been complete without a vibrant performance from SOME HONEY, setting the tone for what felt less like a formal event and more like a family reunion for Birmingham’s purpose-driven community.
A Night of Connection and Celebration
Beyond the speeches and applause, what stood out most was the atmosphere…warm, hopeful and buzzing with possibility. Finalists from the Social Economy Drive Awards mingled with established leaders, sharing stories, laughter and future plans.
It was more than a celebration of iSE’s history, it was a celebration of people: the entrepreneurs, partners, funders and friends who’ve helped build an ecosystem where social business can thrive.
Looking Ahead: The Social Economy Drive 2025
With just one month to go until the Social Economy Drive 2025, the anniversary evening served as the perfect warm-up for what’s to come. A week of networking, learning and celebration is around the corner, including the Showcase Conference & Exhibition and the Social Economy Awards, where the region’s brightest innovators will once again take the stage.
👉 If you haven’t already, make sure you’ve got your tickets: www.socialeconomydrive.com
Join us as we celebrate purpose-driven business and build momentum for another 25 years of social innovation.
Here’s to the Next 25 Years
As the evening drew to a close, one message echoed through the room: the work continues.
From it’s roots in local enterprise to it’s leadership in the regional social economy, iSE’s mission has always been about helping people to build better business.
So here’s to the next 25 years of collaboration, courage and community. Together, we’ll keep driving the social economy forward… one idea, one partnership and one celebration at a time.