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Social Enterprise 101

York Small Business Enterprise Centre has partnered with the Cities of Richmond Hill, Markham and Vaughan to offer a new program, Social Enterprise 101. This 6-week micro-credential course from OCAD University is offered to entrepreneurs thinking about starting a social enterprise business or existing business that would like to turn their venture into a social enterprise.

Social enterprises are organizations that aim to have a social impact. These businesses:

  • Sell goods and services
  • Embed a social, cultural, or environmental purpose into the business
  • Reinvest some of their profits into their social mission
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What is the Social Enterprise 101 course about?

Students will explore the business potential of their social enterprises (or social enterprise ideas), learning how to combine purpose and profit with today’s global challenges.

Topics include: 

  • Business Models
  • Business strategy case studies
  • Developing markets
  • Budgeting
  • Decision-making
  • Business trends
  • Risk analysis
  • Finance
  • Legal issues

Participants will use this information to understand if and how their idea could become a viable business and create a detailed business plan.

When are the classes?
Social Enterprise 101 classes will run every Thursday from October 3 to November 14, 2024.

What are micro-credentials?
Micro-credential is an education model that uses short, focused credentials to learn skill or competencies and is designed to target high-demand skills.

As part of the modules in each micro-credential, participants will complete assignments and exercises relevant to their business or business idea. Instructors assess the student’s work and students must receive a passing grade to qualify for the micro-credential. The micro-credit is awarded in a digital form, which is verified, secure and shareable with peers, employers and educational providers.

Course fees: The custom-created program is offered to approved applicants at a discounted rate of $250.

How to apply: To apply or for questions, contact YSBEC at 1-877-464-9675 ext. 71572 or ysbec@york.ca

Application deadline: The deadline to submit your application is Tuesday, September 10, 2024.

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