Sheffield Social Enterprise Conference
Sheffield Social Enterprise Conference
Sheffield Social Enterprise Conference, city's biggest celebration of social enterprise, with keynote Rob Hopkins and inspiring workshops.
Sheffield Social Enterprise Conference
Join us on Thursday 26 February for the Sheffield Social Enterprise Conference, the largest celebration of social enterprise the city has ever hosted. Curated by the Sheffield Social Enterprise Network, the event will bring together social enterprises, researchers, system leaders and changemakers from across South Yorkshire to learn, connect and celebrate the vital contribution the sector makes to our communities and economy.
Hosted at Sheffield Business School, the conference will be headlined by Rob Hopkins, founder of the global Transition movement and a leading voice on community-led responses to social, economic and environmental change. Drawing inspiration from his latest book, How to Fall in Love with the Future, Rob’s keynote will challenge participants to go beyond survival and reimagine compelling visions for a thriving future.
The programme includes a dedicated workshop on mission drift led by academics from Sheffield Business School, blending research insight with practical experience to help social enterprises grow without losing sight of their purpose.
Thanks to support from Sheffield Business School, Sheffield City Council through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, and the South Yorkshire Innovation Programme, the conference is free to attend and open to social entrepreneurs, sustainability professionals, academics and anyone passionate about using enterprise to drive positive change.
Community Comedy at the Gardeners Rest
NeepsEnders Community Comedy Club at The Gardeners Rest, Neepsend
Join us at Neepsends community pub, the Gardeners Rest – Sheffield’s beloved community pub – for a full on community comedy night that brings everyone together.
🕗 7:30pm–9pm – New Material Showcase: established comedians try out fresh jokes, raw ideas, and big laughs in the making.
🕤 9:15pm–late – Open Mic: the stage opens up for anyone and everyone – whether you’re a first-timer, a seasoned comic, or just fancy giving it a go.
Neeps Enders is all about community, creativity, and connection. Come for the comedy, stay for the atmosphere and be part of Sheffield’s newest comedy family.
📍 The Gardeners Rest, Neepsend, Sheffield
🍻 A proper community pub with real ale, riverside views and stand-up comedy.
Pivot to Enterprise: Enterprise for Charities
Pivot to Enterprise: Enterprise for Charities
Are you a charity or community organisation exploring new ways to generate income?
Join Jodie Marshall from Mantle for our “Pivot to Enterprise” session, designed specifically for charities and voluntary sector organisations who are considering enterprise, setting up a CIC, or spinning out a new enterprise. If you’ve ever wondered what “enterprise” really means for the charity sector, or felt confused by the hype around CICs and grant funding, this session is for you.
You’ll get clear, honest answers about enterprise for charities. We’ll bust common myths about CICs, grants, and legal structures, and help you understand what funders and commissioners are actually looking for. The session offers practical next steps in a supportive, jargon-free environment.
This is perfect for charity leaders, trustees, and teams who want to understand the real opportunities and challenges of enterprise. Let’s help you make informed, confident decisions about your organisation’s future.
Sin & Tonic Comedy Club
🎤 Open Room Comedy Present Sin & Tonic Comedy Club at The Beaten Track 🎤
Show up, go up… but with a twist! We’ve got some of the UK’ss finest comedians pre-booked alongside brand-new voices ready to grab the mic.
📅 When: Sign-ups from 7pm | Comedy from 7:45pm
📍 Where: The Beaten Track at the Wig & Pen, Campo Lane, Sheffield
💸 Tickets: FREE Entry – but must be booked via Eventbrite due to limited capacity
🍔 Bonus: Show your ticket at the bar for 30% off food and 10% off drinks!
Guiding you through the night is local comedian James Hashem, a veteran who traded camouflage for comedy. Turns out laughter really is the best weapon.
NetWalking
Sustainability Netwalking: March
Come and take full advantage of this great opportunity where you can meet new people, build relationships and expand your network whilst exploring nature!
For our March Sustainability Netwalking event we'll be paying a visit to the historic Ecclesall Woods. We will meet at the visitor centre car park off Abbey Lane. The session will begin with us introducing ourselves in one sentence followed by walking, mixing and talking. The walk itself will last around one hour. Afterwards those that want to can join us for a coffee and some deeper connecting and networking.
Details
Meeting time: 9:15am
Walking Start time: 9:30am
Distance: 3 miles
Why The Enterprise Really Matters: Strengthening Your Social Enterprise
Why The Enterprise Really Matters: Strengthening Your Social Enterprise
Already running a social enterprise? Ready to level up your business model and impact?
Join Jodie Marshall from Mantle for “Why The Enterprise Really Matters,” a masterclass created for established social enterprises who want to become more robust, commercial, and impact-led. This session goes beyond “should we trade?” It’s all about building a stronger, more sustainable enterprise.
You’ll explore how resilient and commercial your current model really is, learn about common pitfalls and how to avoid them, and discover practical ways to link enterprise activity to real social impact.
Connect with peers facing similar challenges and leave with clear, actionable ideas to strengthen your organisation for the future.
Where: Showroom 5, The Showroom, Sheffield City Centre
Printing Positive Change' Screen Printing Workshop
Printing Positive Change' Screen Printing Workshop
Learn how to Screen Print onto t-shirts and cards while gaining an understanding of how Printed By Us utilise this craft to support vulnerable adults.
During the session you will screen-print your own t-shirt (available sizes XS to 5XL) with a choice of one of two 'Printing Positive Change' designs, as well as a pack of 4 greeting cards. This will also give you an insight into how both textile and paper screen-printing differs.
This is an introductory course, aimed at all skill levels as we focus on the mindful benefits of screen-printing and how it is used as a vehicle for positive change.
For more information and booking click here
Concertina Book Making
Concertina Book Making at Anomoly Arts
Your Inner Artist with the Magic of Folded Pages
Join Anomaly Arts for a hands-on, creative journey where we’ll explore the endless possibilities of concertina (accordion) bookmaking. Whether you’re a seasoned crafter or just looking for something new to try, this workshop will show you how to transform simple sheets of paper into stunning, folded works of art.
Book via their website here
Warmth Community Sauna
Warmth Community Sauna offer a unique opportunity to experience the benefits of community-focused, accessible wellness. Located in Shalesmoor, Sheffield, Warmth Community Sauna are a social enterprise dedicated to making sauna culture inclusive and welcoming for all, providing a space for relaxation, connection, and wellbeing. Their handcrafted sauna, inspired by Nordic traditions, offers a peaceful escape from the hustle of daily life, promoting both physical and mental wellbeing. Whether you’re looking to unwind, meet like-minded people, or explore the health benefits of sauna therapy, this is the perfect chance to experience Sheffield’s only community sauna in a welcoming and friendly environment.
🔗 Book your session and be part of the movement for accessible wellbeing: Warmth Community Sauna
New Games Networking
Looking for a fresh way to network and unwind? Join us at Union Street Cafe, Sheffield, for an interactive and engaging session as part of the Festival of Social Enterprise.
This event is open to everyone! Facilitated by Dale from New Games, this unique session introduces innovative games designed to improve communication, reduce stress, and help resolve conflict. You’ll get hands-on experience, explore what makes them ‘new,’ and discuss how they can benefit teamwork, collaboration, and wellbeing. The most important thing to know: the games are fun!
Bring your colleagues, your team, or even a friend or partner, and enjoy a relaxed and fun environment where you can connect with others, spark new ideas, and experience the power of play. Whether you’re looking to network, develop skills, or just enjoy something different, this event is for you!
PN: We are sorry to say that the workshop space is not currently accessible.
Kids Plant Trees - Volunteer day
Get hands-on with nature at Townfield Head Farm with Kids Plant Trees!
Drop in for as long or as little as you like and help prepare a new outdoor learning space for school visits. Try your hand at dry stone walling, tree identification, and seed planting with expert guidance. Whether you prefer heavy-duty tasks or lighter activities, there’s something for everyone (16+). Your efforts will support nature-based learning for children from disadvantaged areas. Refreshments provided – just bring sturdy footwear and enthusiasm! Hosted by Kids Plant Trees, this event is part of the Festival of Social Enterprise Sheffield. Limited parking available – shuttle service from Malin Bridge tram stop.
Sign up and make a difference here.
Inside Portland Works: A Living Legacy of Craft & Enterprise
Inside Portland Works: A Living Legacy of Craft & Enterprise
The Portland Works invites you to an exclusive showround of this historic Grade II* listed building, home to a vibrant community of makers, artists, and social enterprises. Explore the workshops, meet some of the independent tenants who call Portland Works home, and learn about the site’s rich heritage and ongoing evolution as a hub for creativity and innovation.
Between tours, there will be a brief presentation on Portland Works journey to becoming a social enterprise - the challenges and successes- and more information about opportunities to get involved. This will be followed by informal networking. Whether you’re passionate about heritage, social enterprise, or creative industries, this is a fantastic chance to connect and explore.
If you are wanting to join a tour please ensure you are at the Portland Works before the following times:
Tour 1: 9:10am
Tour 2: 10:40am
The presentation and networking opportunities will take place between 10am and 10:30am.
Book your tickets here
Secret Dinner Club - Chef's Counter - SOLD OUT
Secret Dinner Club - Chef’s Counter - SOLD OUT
The one rule of secret dinner club, is you can’t tell people about secret dinner club.
Once you’ve bought your ticket, Chef’s Counter will send you details of at a secret location 24 hours prior to your visit revealing the location. Once there, you’ll get to watch their chef’s work in their open plan kitchen as they serve you a carefully curated menu using only the best seasonal, locally sourced food for you and up to 20 guests.
Tickets cost £35pp and we’re also allowing you to bring your own booze to these events and remember, it’s our little secret.
Tickets for this event have now sold out, future Secret Dinner Club dates can be found here.
Music, Creativity & Community Open Day at Spring Tank Studios
🎶 Experience Music, Creativity & Community at Spring Tank Studios Open Day! 🎶
Join Spring Tank Studios for a day of music, creativity, and community at Spring Tank Studios as part of the Festival of Social Enterprise! This family-friendly event is open to everyone, so bring the kids along and get stuck into some hands-on music fun!
🎧 Open House | 11 AM – 5 PM
Explore the recording studio, DJ room, and rehearsal spaces—take a tour and discover what Spring Tank Studios have to offer!
🎼 Music Production Workshops | 12 PM – 4 PM
📌 Short 20-minute taster sessions (sign up on arrival)
💡 Learn how to use an Akai MPC sampler and create your own beats with Maxwell Solomon
🎛️ DJ Workshops | 1 PM – 5 PM
🔥 No sign-up needed—just jump on the decks!
🎵 Master the art of beat matching and mixing on a Pioneer CDJ setup with Reuben G
🍽 Food & Drinks Available
Refuel and relax in the project space with delicious food and drinks available to purchase all day.
👨👩👧👦 Child-friendly & open to all – no experience needed, just bring your energy!
📍 Spring Tank Studios, 100 Randall street, Sheffield, S2 4SE
🎟 FREE entry – everyone welcome!
Come get hands-on, meet like-minded creatives, and celebrate the power of social enterprise through music! 🎶✨
Ammi’s Kitchen Community Lunch
Join Family Voice network at Ammi’s Kitchen on Friday 14th March for a special community lunch as part of the Festival of Social Enterprise. Ammi’s Kitchen is a social enterprise empowering local women by providing opportunities to cook and share cuisines from their cultures. This event is a celebration of food, culture, and community, bringing people together over a delicious meal made with love and tradition.
Alongside the lunch, you’ll have the chance to support and connect with women-led social enterprises, with a marketplace featuring handmade crochet gifts, henna painting, and other beautiful crafts created by women from the Ammi’s Kitchen network. Come along, enjoy great food, discover unique handmade products, and be part of a growing movement supporting social enterprises and female entrepreneurship. Everyone is welcome!
🔗 Find out more & book your place: Ammi’s Kitchen Community Lunch
Unlocking Potential: Sheffield's Path to Neurodiverse Employment
Unlocking Potential: Sheffield's Path to Neurodiverse Employment - Panel Discussion
Join us for a vital discussion on employment and the neurodiverse community, brought to you by Percy Street Collective and The Growth Company and will be held at the Alder Bar as part of the SSEN Festival of Social Enterprise. Where we explore how Sheffield can become a leader in inclusive employment for neurodiverse individuals. With many neurodiverse people facing systemic barriers to paid work, this session focuses on breaking these challenges and celebrating the unique strengths and talents of this community.
This event is free to attend and open to everyone.
Book you tickets here
Social Enterprising the Transitions Ahead – Film Screening & Q&A
Social Enterprising the Transitions Ahead – Film Screening & Q&A
Join us for a special screening of Social Enterprising the Transitions Ahead, a powerful 50-minute documentary exploring how Sheffield’s social enterprises are leading systemic change in response to the interconnected social, economic, and environmental challenges of our time.
Commissioned by the Sheffield Social Enterprise Network (SSEN) and produced by local social enterprise Opus Films, this film showcases the innovative work of social entrepreneurs in Sheffield—pioneering inclusive employment, circular economy models, and community-led solutions that challenge traditional economic narratives and offer a vision for a fairer, more sustainable future.
Following the screening, take part in a 30-minute Q&A session with some of the inspiring local social entrepreneurs and experts featured in the film. Together, we’ll discuss how social enterprises are shaping the future of our economy, rethinking outdated growth models, and fostering collaboration over competition.
🔹 Spaces are limited – book your free ticket today!
Drop in and Draw
Drop in and Draw at Anomaly Arts
Whether you're an experienced artist or just looking to explore your creative side, these sessions are a perfect way to unwind, learn, and create in a welcoming and relaxed environment.
Pay As You Feel: Anomaly Arts believe art should be accessible to everyone. While the sessions are free to attend, we suggest a donation of £5 to help cover materials and support our program.
Some materials are provided, but please bring your own if you have those available
Come and express yourself through art! No prior experience is necessary.
For more information and book your ticket here
Sustainability NetWalking: March
Sustainability Netwalking: March
For our March Sustainability Netwalking event we'll be paying a visit to the historic Ecclesall Woods. We will meet at the visitor centre car park off Abbey Lane. The session will begin with us introducing ourselves in one sentence followed by walking, mixing and talking. The walk itself will last around one hour. Afterwards those that want to can join us for a coffee and some deeper connecting and networking.
Sing Your Heart Out - A free singing workshop open to everyone!
Sing Your Heart Out - A free singing workshop open to everyone!
Always wanted to try singing with others? Here’s your chance!
Community Music Makers is a new social enterprise that brings communities together to make music through group activities that are accessible and welcoming. Their Singing In… community choirs and music groups in North Sheffield are relaxed, and take place weekly during the daytime.
This one off singing workshop at SOAR Works Enterprise Centre offers the chance to experience the joy of singing in a group with no commitment required. There’s no need to book, just turn up on the day. The singing will start at 10.00am and will finish with refreshments from 11.00am. More info here.
Sheffield Co-op Meet Up Launch
Sheffield Co-op Meet Up Launch
This informal gathering is a chance to connect, share ideas, and explore opportunities with fellow co-operators, social entrepreneurs, and community-minded individuals.
It is hoped that this will be the first gathering of a regular Sheffield Co-operatives networking social and get together.
No booking required, more info here - 06-03-2025 Meetup - SheffieldCoops
Sheffield Social Enterprise Social
Sheffield Social Enterprise Social – Post-Conference Meet-Up
Join us for an informal Social at the Showroom Cinema Bar on Wednesday 5th March, 5pm–7pm, straight after the Sheffield Social Enterprise Network Conference (Rewriting the Rules: Social Enterprise in Action)
This is a chance to unwind, connect, and continue the conversations sparked during the day. Whether you're a seasoned social entrepreneur or just starting out, come along to meet like-minded people, share ideas, and build new collaborations over a drink.
*Sheffield Social Enterprise Network will not be providing drinks or catering.
Rewriting the Rules: Social Enterprise in Action
The Sheffield Social Enterprise Winter Conference -
Rewriting the Rules: Social Enterprise in Action
Emma Woods from Flourish Economics will guide us through an engaging session 'The Power of Rethinking: Myths, Markets, and Meaningful Change.' We'll also explore the inspiring Radical Voices and Social Spotlights that showcase the incredible work of Sheffield’s social enterprises. Keep an eye out for more details soon!
Book your tickets now! - free for all SSEN Members and SEGA Participants.
If you have questions about the event or registration please email april@ssen.org.uk.