Highlands and Islands Enterprise commissioned GEN to undertake a sector profiling exercise and supporting research looking at the social enterprise sector in the Highlands and Islands. The research will explore the size and nature of the sector, future growth opportunities, constraints to growth and the support needs of businesses operating in the sector. 

The information will assist HIE to provide the best support for the sector, ensuring it continues to grow and play a key role in the local economy. 

How you can help? 
The participation of local organisations is crucial to the success of the study. GEN are engaging with social enterprises in several ways; you may already have been asked to take part in an online or telephone survey. GEN are now looking to bring Social Enterprise’s together. This will add depth to the survey findings and allow you to have your say! 

GEN are holding a series of focus groups. These will involve discussion of: 
The research findings (to date) 
The support needs of your organisation 
Different options for supporting Social Enterprises - types of support and the delivery mechanisms that may be most beneficial in future 

The meeting will also offer you a chance to meet other organisations working in your sector or in your local area. 

Where?
Inverness - 20 or 27 January 2012
Stornoway - 27 January 2012
Kirkwall - 1 February 2012 

If you would like to take part or need any further information about the research, please get in touch with Laura Thorpe at GEN 
0845 644 5407 or email laura.thorpe@ekosgen.co.uk