Why Teach Students About Social Enterprises, a Social Economy, and a Social Conscience? 8.4.25 - Cancelled

Why Teach Students About Social Enterprises, a Social Economy, and a Social Conscience? For TY Teachers 8.4.25
Introducing students to social enterprises and the concept of a social economy provides them with valuable life skills while fostering a sense of social responsibility. By learning how businesses can solve real-world challenges, students develop a deeper understanding of how profit and purpose can coexist. Teaching them about social enterprises encourages innovation, critical thinking, and empathy, as they explore how businesses can create positive social and environmental change. In addition, promoting a social conscience empowers students to become active, informed citizens who are motivated to contribute meaningfully to their communities. This holistic approach not only prepares students for future careers but also cultivates future leaders who understand the power of business to address society's most pressing issues.
The Young Social Entrepreneur of the Year 2025 competition offers an exciting opportunity for secondary school students in the Just Transition region (Laois, Offaly, Longford, Westmeath, Roscommon, and East Galway) to engage in creating social enterprises. This inaugural competition, launched in Athlone, invites students to develop business ideas that tackle pressing social and environmental challenges, with the overall winner receiving a trip to the European Parliament in Brussels.
Key Details:
• Target Audience: Transition Year students from participating schools in the region.
• Competition Steps:
o Introduction to social enterprises.
o Research and identification of a community issue.
o Feasibility study and project planning.
o Development of financial projections.
o Final presentation and feedback from judges.
• Submission Deadlines:
o Schools must express interest by September 19, 2025.
o Final submission deadline: November 14, 2025.
• Awards:
o Successful teams will present their projects in Leinster House.
o The overall winner will have the opportunity to visit Brussels courtesy of Maria Walsh MEP

Date: Tuesday 8th April 2025
Time: 4.30pm
Venue: Laois Education Support Centre, Block Road, Portlaoise R32CP26