St George’s Market, Belfast, was buzzing on the 10th June with Ireland’s first cross- border trade event for social enterprise.

With over 900 people through the door, the day was a resounding success. Eighty- seven social enterprises from across Ireland took up the opportunity to exhibit at the event and network with potential new buyers. Delegates also took part in business seminars sponsored by Invest Northern Ireland.

Trade and Commerce took centre stage with over 150 pre-arranged ‘Meet the Buyer’ appointments taking place throughout the day between social enterprises and buyers from the Public sector and Private sector.

The event was opened by Belfast’s new Lord Mayor, Councillor Tom Hartley and a keynote speech was given by Stephen Sears, ECT Recycling. Until recently Stephen Sears headed the ECT Group, one of the UK’s leading social enterprises, with a £55m turnover and 1,300 employees. He is now responsible for its subsidiary business ECT Recycling, which was recently acquired for £15m by May Gurney.

netWORKS 2008 showcased a mix of business and entertainment with jugglers and drummers provided by Belfast Circus and the BEAT Initiative. Bruised Fruit - the more-than-profit Promotions organisation based in Belfast - organised a line up of young Northern Irish musicians who played throughout the day. A delicious choice of local produce was also on offer from a range of social enterprises in the netWORKS Food Court.

Commenting on netWORKS 2008, Helen Matthews, Chairperson of the event organisers, Ulster Community Investment Trust, said: “Anyone will tell you that the real value in trade events is the opportunity to network with other people. It is through informal conversations, the development of new contacts and shared learning that business opportunities are developed and realised.”

‘Social Enterprise vital to NI Economy’ – Brian Ambrose

The trade event received overwhelming support from well known business leaders including Brian Ambrose, Northern Ireland Chairman of CBI, Martin Murphy, Chief Executive of Hewlett-Packard Ireland and Senator Feargal Quinn, President of the Superquinn supermarket chain.

“Social enterprises are an integral part of Northern Ireland economy,” said Brian Ambrose “They have an important contribution to make to local communities and must be at the forefront of driving economic development to help the economy reach its full potential.”

netWORKS 2008 was organised by Ulster Community Investment Trust (UCIT) in partnership with Ardee Business Park and Tuath Donegal Community and Local Development Centre.

For further information regarding netWORKS 2008, please contact Ulster Community Investment Trust (UCIT) (www.ucitltd.com) on tel: +44 (0) 28 90 315003 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it

• View netWORKS 2008 Photo Gallery