Free Online Course: Creating a Social Enterprise
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Do you have an idea that could create positive social or environmental change in your community?
Take our free online course!
Whether you’re part of a community group, an aspiring social entrepreneur, or involved in an early-stage social enterprise, this free online course will help you take the next step. It’s a free, on-demand course created by Rethink Ireland, hosted on Alison.com.
Turn your idea into action
Creating a Social Enterprise is a practical, on-demand course designed to introduce the fundamentals of social enterprise and support people who want to turn ideas into sustainable action. The course is hosted on Alison.com, a social enterprise committed to providing free, accessible education to learners around the world.
Developed by Rethink Ireland, IPB Insurance, and the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, the content has been shaped with input from social enterprise practitioners, expert consultants, and social enterprise founders.
Through this introductory course, you’ll learn:
- What a social enterprise is and how it works
- Key considerations when developing a social enterprise idea
- An introduction to funding and income-generation models
- The basics of measuring and communicating impact
- Practical guidance on storytelling and pitching
- Insights from social enterprise practitioners and founders
The course is suitable for:
- Individuals with an idea for social or environmental change
- Community groups exploring new projects
- New and emerging social enterprises
- Anyone interested in using business as a force for good
Hear from Social Enterprise Founders
One of the best ways to learn is from people who have done it themselves. In the course you will learn from experienced social enterprise founders, including Tammy Darcy of The Shona Project and James McConville of ACT, as they share practical advice from their own social enterprise journeys.
Start your social enterprise journey today with our free, on-demand course on Alison.com
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a social enterprise?
A social enterprise is an organisation that exists to create positive social or environmental change. It generates income through the sale of products or services and reinvests its profits into its mission rather than distributing them to private shareholders.
Social enterprises are tackling some of Ireland’s most pressing challenges, from climate action and community development to education, health, and social inclusion. They are creating jobs, supporting members of marginalised communities, and fostering community development. At Rethink Ireland, believe there is a need to champion and invest in social enterprises to allow them to expand their impact and spread their solutions throughout the country.
Does the course cost money?
No. The course is free during the 2026 pilot year.
How long does the course take to complete?
The course is self-paced, allowing you to progress through the content at a time and pace that suits you.
How long will I have access to the course?
You will have access to the course for 120 days after enrolment.
Will I receive a certificate?
Yes. Learners who successfully complete the course will receive a certificate through Alison.com.
Are there assignments or exercises?
Yes. The course includes quizzes, reflection exercises, practical templates, and other self-directed learning activities designed to help you apply what you learn. As this is a self-directed online course, individual feedback is not provided.
Will I receive feedback on my work?
No. As this is a self-directed online course, individual feedback is not provided.
What platform is the course hosted on?
The course is hosted on Alison.com, a social enterprise and online learning platform.
What do I need to take the course?
You will need an internet connection and a device to access the course. While the course can be accessed on mobile devices, we recommend using a desktop or laptop for the best learning experience.
Do I need to install any software?
No. No additional software or downloads are required to complete the course.
Are there any live classes?
No. The course is fully self-paced and does not include any live sessions.
Will I be connected with other participants?
No. During the 2026 pilot year, there are no networking or peer-learning elements included in the course.
Is support available if I get stuck?
For technical support or questions about the course content, please contact businesscourse@rethinkireland.ie.
What is a social enterprise?
A social enterprise is an organisation that exists to create positive social or environmental change. It generates income through the sale of products or services and reinvests its profits into its mission rather than distributing them to private shareholders.
Social enterprises are tackling some of Ireland’s most pressing challenges, from climate action and community development to education, health, and social inclusion. They are creating jobs, supporting members of marginalised communities, and fostering community development. At Rethink Ireland, believe there is a need to champion and invest in social enterprises to allow them to expand their impact and spread their solutions throughout the country.
