For more than 40 years, CASE has been a cornerstone of Leicester and Leicestershire’s social enterprise landscape. Originally formed as a co-operative development agency within the local council, CASE has since evolved into a standalone organisation that continues to champion co-operatives, social enterprises and community interest companies (CICs) across the region.
Today, CASE operates as a team of associate members, each bringing a wealth of experience and specialist expertise. The organisation’s advisors work closely with clients to provide tailored support in starting up, advising on legal structures, financial planning, business development, board creation, recruitment, HR and conflict management.
CASE ensures that every client receives expert guidance suited to their sector. Its specialists are resourceful in various areas such as legal, commercial and premises, community and individual empowerment, support for leisure and the arts.
The organisation continues to deliver a range of projects and partnerships across Leicestershire, including collaborations with:
The Community Enterprise Engine and University of Leicester on an SPF-funded programme, Growth Accelerator for Social Entrepreneurs
Leicestershire County Council supporting social enterprises countywide
North West Leicestershire District Council-funded programme, Women Mean Business
Voluntary Action Leicestershire and Rural Community Council project, BUILD providing employee assistance and enterprise support in rural Leicestershire
With a strong reputation among individuals and organisations alike, CASE remains committed to changing the way people do business by promoting co-operative ways of working and encouraging employee and community ownership.
As Julia Carden from CASE explains, “Many people are shifting away from traditional corporate models toward more purpose-driven work. CASE helps them to overcome challenges, gain knowledge and help them use resources effectively to give their enterprises the best chance to succeed”.
“People often just don’t know where to start,” Julia says. “That’s where we come in - helping them to build confidence, access the right support and turn their ideas into a purposeful and sustainable business”.
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