News
Why the Social Economy Deserves the Spotlight: Celebrating Unsung Changemakers Across the West Midlands
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Inclusive Health Pitch Day: Courage, Creativity and Community!
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How West Midlands Employers Are Prioritising Wellbeing at Work
Supporting your staff’s mental health is more than just good practice…it’s smart business. During Mental Health Awareness Week 2025, West Midlands Mayor Richard Parker is urging employers to sign up to the Thrive at Work programme, a practical and proven initiative helping over 300,000 workers access better wellbeing support.
Veterans Find New Opportunities as Social Enterprise Launches Traffic Sign Production Line
A new traffic sign production line at Royal British Legion Industries (RBLI) is creating meaningful job opportunities for military veterans. The initiative, developed in partnership with HW Martin (Traffic Management) Ltd, strengthens social enterprise efforts while improving service delivery. This collaboration highlights how business and purpose can align to support those who’ve served.
Regional High Growth SMEs
The West Midlands’ flagship High Growth Accelerator programme has entered its second year, following a successful pilot that saw 50 local SMEs generate over £4 million in new investment and project a combined £15 million uplift in turnover. Backed by Mayor Richard Parker and the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) and delivered by consultancy firm Gateley Global, the initiative has become a springboard for high potential companies in sectors from tech to manufacturing.
Why Are So Many Funders Closing Their Doors?
Across the UK, the heartbeat of social change is faltering not because the passion has gone, but because the funding is. In recent months, a rising number of major funders have paused their grant programmes or exited entirely, leaving charities and social enterprises wondering what the future holds.
West Midlands Business Festival 2025
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A United Midlands: Mayors Join Forces to Drive Economic Growth and Opportunity
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Why “Reimagine Your Business” is a Must Attend Workshop for SMEs in Birmingham
The “Reimagine Your Business” workshop, hosted by iSE and Birmingham Metropolitan College (BMet), offers SMEs, social enterprises, and non-profits in the West Midlands a free, interactive session to explore digital tools, design thinking, and AI to boost business growth and efficiency. The event, taking place on 6th March, 2025, at the NatWest Accelerator Hub in Birmingham.
Powering Equality: IWD 2025
On 25th February 2025, iSE will take the stage at the International Women’s Day Conference & Exhibition at Millennium Point, Birmingham. Hosting a panel of inspirational women who are breaking barriers and driving measurable social impact. This event celebrates achievements, whilst amplifying diverse voices for a more inclusive future.
The Diabetes Crisis No One Talks About… Until It’s Too Late!
The Initiative for Social Entrepreneurs (ISE) is launching the Women’s Diabetes Wellbeing Programme to address the urgent rise in Type 2 diabetes and gestational diabetes in underserved communities. With a focus on health education, lifestyle support, and economic empowerment, this initiative aims to equip women with the knowledge and tools to reduce their risk and lead healthier lives.
West Midlands Upskills 43,000 People as Mayor Prioritises Youth Employment and Future Industries
Over 43,000 people have received vital job training in the West Midlands, thanks to a regional focus on emerging sectors like digital, AI, and sustainability. This effort, spearheaded by the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) and Mayor Richard Parker, is a key step toward addressing skills shortages and youth unemployment.