Coming together to build resilient community businesses

Four professionals standing together in a modern office setting, holding folders and wearing lanyards, with a green Community First Yorkshire Networks logo in the foreground
As grant funding becomes increasingly competitive, social enterprises are seeking new ways to sustain their work and build resilience. The Community Business Network is designed to support voluntary organisations and social enterprises across North Yorkshire that generate traded income and are committed to creating positive change.

The network provides a welcoming space to connect with fellow VCSE leaders who understand your challenges and share your drive. Whether you’re a charity, CIC, CIO, or another type of social enterprise, the network is here to help you strengthen your business model and grow your impact.

Upcoming network meetings

The network launched in September 2025 with 12 months of planned activity designed to explore the foundations of successful trading, including:

  • Vision, mission and values
  • Impact and communication
  • Understanding your market and selling your work.

Each network session will focus on one of these building blocks, helping you develop a more strategic approach to income generation.

Why join?

The network is open to any voluntary organisation or social enterprise operating in or with connections to North Yorkshire, and generating income through trading. The aim is to:

  • Share news, information and practical knowledge
  • Encourage joined-up approaches to supporting social enterprises
  • Facilitate conversations around partnership working and collaborative opportunities
  • Build connections to strengthen resilience across the sector.
Previous network meetings

An overview of previous network meeting discussions, useful links and resources.

19 September 2025 - Launch event: Vision and mission

Our launch event focused on the importance of your organisation’s vision and mission. With guidance from an experienced business coach, participants had the opportunity to:

  • Reflect on their current vision and mission statements
  • Identify strengths and areas for development
  • Explore how these elements can support income generation
  • Attendees also connected with other social entrepreneurs, shared ideas, and left inspired to move forward with renewed clarity and confidence.
Contact us

To find out more about the network please contact the team at info@communityfirstyorkshire.org.uk or by calling 01904 704177.