Deadline Date: July 29, 2026
The Trading for Good programme in Milton Keynes supports organisations and individuals to increase trading income while strengthening community impact.
The programme focuses on generating trading income, building resilient organisations, accessing local opportunities for income and impact, contributing to local priorities, developing emotional resourcefulness, building strong peer networks, and creating greater social impact within Milton Keynes.
The Trading for Good programme offers a structured pathway for early-stage social enterprises, charities, and social impact projects to grow through trading activities. Participants benefit from a combination of funding, expert-led learning, and a supportive peer network designed to strengthen both financial sustainability and community outcomes.
Through ten learning sessions spread across a year, participants engage with experienced facilitators, industry experts, and fellow social enterprise leaders. This collaborative environment encourages knowledge sharing, skill development, and confidence building, helping organisations refine their strategies and expand their impact.
A key component of the programme is the Match Trading™ Grant of up to £4,000, which is designed to incentivize and support the growth of trading income. This flexible funding enables organisations to apply their learning in practical ways, invest in their development, and strengthen their operational resilience.
In addition to financial support, participants gain access to a ready-made network of like-minded individuals and opportunities for peer-to-peer learning. This network plays a crucial role in fostering collaboration, sharing ideas, and overcoming common challenges faced by growing social enterprises.
The programme is open to leaders of early-stage organisations that are committed to delivering social or environmental impact in Milton Keynes. Eligible applicants must demonstrate a clear intention to increase their trading income and operate for public benefit, with a structured organisational framework in place.
Special consideration is given to organisations led by and serving underrepresented communities, including Black and racially minoritised groups, deaf and disabled individuals, women, LGBTQ+ communities, and those in economically disadvantaged areas, ensuring inclusive access to opportunities for growth and development.
For more information, visit School for Social Entrepreneurs.
