Topic outline

    • *The closing date for this programme is Friday 12 December.  Any applications received after this date will automatically be added to a waiting list for consideration if additional places become available.*


      We understand that costs are rising, funding is becoming more scarce, and needs are greater than ever before. This programme will look at financial sustainability, including ways to increase income and social impact. Working with others in social enterprises, development trusts, community land trusts, charities, and place-based organisations, we will introduce you to design thinking, solution circles and action learning sets to help you work out a vision for the future and a new way forward.


      The residential will give you lots of time to connect with people running similar organisations. You will be working on your ideas and challenges during the programme. You will leave the residential with new ideas, new connections, and new energy to address the opportunities and the challenges you face. You will also be better able to support others in the community with their enterprise ideas.


    • Who is it for?

      People leading place-based or anchor organisations in the Highlands & Islands.

      We particularly welcome applications from women and under-represented or under-supported groups and communities.

      Please ensure that you join us for the full residential experience from start to finish, including evenings. Time spent connecting with others over meals, during the evening, and in visits to local social enterprises is central to this residential programme.

    • Programme Details

      Start | 12 noon Monday 09 March 2026

      Finish | 12 noon Thursday 12 March 2026

      Where | Caladh Inn | Stornoway

      Fully funded programme, with meals and accommodation included thanks to funding from the Scottish Government's Ecosystem Pathways Fund.

    • It has been interesting working with trustees and the passion they have. We have learnt and developed skills throughout the programme that have allowed us to focus on the project itself with more opportunities to grow the potential income

      Previous Learner on the Steps to Sustainability Programme

      • Improve your confidence and resourcefulness in leading and building resilience in terms of funding
      • Explore a range of possible income generation models/investments and funding
      • Gain confidence to lead, develop and inspire others to support the development of your future vision
      • Gain new skills to support others in the community with their enterprise ideas
      • Develop tools to generate creative solutions to current challenges
      • Create an action plan linked to your future vision for your organisation

    • Your Facilitators

      Your facilitators for this programme will be Jay Lamb and Keira Oliver. Find out more about our Facilitators here.

    • Apply now

       

    • We are delighted to be working with Development Trusts Association Scotland – known as DTAS – to deliver this programme. DTAS is a member-led organisation that promotes, supports and represents development trusts across Scotland. They have nearly 350 full and provisional members across the length and breadth of Scotland, as well as over 40 associate members. They also provide support to dozens of aspiring members and other community organisations.

      Development Trusts Association Scotland Logo



    • More Information The Ecosystem Pathways Fund   

      Iain Boyd |  iain@socialenterprise.academy