RenSEN Newsletter - 18 November

RenSEN Network
RenSEN - Spotlight
RenSEN News
Social Enterprise week 17 – 21 November 2025
Renfrewshire’s Digital Inclusion Journey
APT Renfrewshire Training


Support and Training
Social Enterprise Learning
 

A selection of learning workshops and events taking place in November…

• 19 November – Start-up Street Business Fair (10am – 2pm) – This free event is a ‘one stop shop for trading, networking, masterclasses, drop in support sessions and more’.  Full details can be found here: https://startupstreetbusinessfair.eventbrite.co.uk 
• Unlocking Opportunities with the Public Sector – This interactive information session hosted by Social Enterprise Scotland ‘will walk you through how public sector procurement works’ (19 November).
• 01 December – AI Masterclass (online / SCVO)
• 20 January 2026 – (Procurement) Working with the public sector: All you need to know (online / Supplier Development Programme)
• 29 January 2026 – Making friends with your finances (in-person, Glasgow / Just Enterprise)

RenSEN News

• Safe Deposits Scotland’s Community Fund – Provides small grants up to £5,000.  Find out more about the application process here. Guidance notes can be viewed here
• Apt Renfrewshire offers a calendar programme of specialist training to Renfrewshire-based employers on topics relating to wellbeing at work.  Take a closer look here: Apt Renfrewshire workshop programme
• The National Lottery Community Fund’s Young Start programme will pause on 19 December 2025 and reopen Spring 2026.  If you’re considering applying to Young Start but haven’t discussed this with TNLCF or requested an application form yet, then contact TNLCF as soon as possible so their Funding Officer can advise you further.

Social Enterprise Week 17-21 November

As part of Social Enterprise week 2025, Renfrewshire Social Enterprise network (Rensen) will be promoting case studies of local RenSEN members. SE’s contribute significantly to the local community as well as the economy, they have a huge social impact. RenSEN supports over 130 enterprising organisations & SE’s, approximately 110 incorporated, 14 recently registered with RenSEN & a further 10 underdevelopment. #Socialenterpriseday  To find out more contact info@engagerenfrewshire.com

Social enterprises are innovative, independent businesses created to achieve specific social and environmental goals. Rather than prioritising profit, they reinvest their earnings back into their organisations to further their social missions. This model represents a dynamic, ethical and sustainable approach to doing business. Across Scotland, there are over 6,000 social enterprises — including more than 100 in Renfrewshire — contributing more than £2.3 billion to the national economy and supporting over 90,000 jobs.

Our first case study features a new developing SE “Connecting Care Renfrewshire”

Renfrewshire’s Digital Inclusion Journey

Join us for an inspiring session that explores Renfrewshire’s Digital Inclusion Journey—a story of collaboration, innovation, and community empowerment. Digital inclusion is more than technology; it’s about equity, opportunity, and human rights. It ensures that everyone—regardless of age, income, or background—can participate fully in society.

This webinar will showcase how Renfrewshire Council and its partners are tackling digital exclusion head-on, creating a connected, confident, and resilient community. From DigiZones and Digital Champions to community-led device recycling and online safety initiatives, you’ll discover practical solutions and bold strategies that are making a real difference.
 
When: 28 November 2025 10:00 - 11:00
Where: Microsoft Teams
Sign up here: https://events.teams.microsoft.com/event/402aa17b-216c-4bab-8375-8c695c5a7a5d@ca295336-1aa6-4486-b2b2-cf7669625305
 
What You’ll Learn

• Why digital inclusion matters: The human impact behind the stats.
• Renfrewshire’s strategic approach: Aligning local and national priorities.
• Key achievements: From DigiRen Network to DigiKnowVember.
• Community-driven innovation: How partnerships and lived experience shape solutions.
• Future vision: Building a safer, more digitally capable Renfrewshire.

  
Why Attend?

• Be inspired by real-world examples of digital inclusion in action.
• Learn how cross-sector collaboration can transform communities.
• Take away ideas you can apply in your own organisation or locality.
• Connect with others passionate about bridging the digital divide.

 
Who Should Join?

• Public sector professionals
• Third sector organisations
• Community leaders
• Businesses and social enterprises
• Anyone committed to digital inclusion

 
Speakers
James McKee, Digital Strategy Delivery Manager, Renfrewshire Council
Ross McNicol, Digital Participation Officer, Renfrewshire Council
Together, James and Ross will share insights, success stories, and practical tips for creating inclusive digital ecosystems.
 

Social Enterprise Learning Webinars (for social enterprises at all stages)

 All courses are free unless stated otherwise

Enhancing Digital Skills
19 November – Cyber security essentials for small businesses (online / Business Gateway)
20 November – Social media fundamentals (online / SCVO) Fees apply
25 November - Unlocking the Power of AI for Social Impact (Social Enterprise Scotland)
01 December – AI Masterclass (online / SCVO)
02 December – Managing digital change (online / SCVO)
08 December – AI Masterclass 2 (online / SCVO)


Governance & Leadership
20 November – Introduction to being a board member (online / Culture and Business Scotland) Fees apply
02 December – Good governance: Board and staff relationships (online / SCVO) Fees apply
20 January – Making the most of your SCVO membership (online / SCVO)
04 February – Introduction to project management (online / SCVO) Fees apply



Social Enterprise Essentials
25 November and 26 November – Measuring social value (online / School for Social Entrepreneurs) fees apply
27 November – Making online meetings better (online / SCVO)
03 December – Comms and marketing made easy (online / SCVO) Fees apply
20 January – Introduction to safeguarding (online / SCVO) Fees apply)
28 January – Be report writing ready (online / SCVO) Fees apply
29 January – Making friends with your finances (in-person, Glasgow / Just Enterprise)
03 February 2026 – Plan measure and report social impact (online / SCVO) Fees apply
25 February 2026 – Social impact for start-ups (in-person Glasgow / Just Enterprise)
04 March 2026 – How to win contracts and service level agreements (online / SCVO) Fees apply


Income Generation / Procurement
27 November – Unlocking legacy support (online / Culture and Business Scotland) fees apply
20 January 2026 – (Procurement) Working with the public sector: All you need to know (online / Supplier Development Programme)
21 January 2026 – Packaging your sponsorships (online / Culture and Business Scotland) Fees apply
27 January 2026 – How to find and bid for opportunities on Public Contact Scotland (PCS) (online / Supplier Development Programme)
28 January 2026 - Introduction to social investment (online / Just Enterprise)
04 February 2026 – Getting your business tender ready (online / Supplier Development Programme)