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What is a social entrepreneur?
See our What is a social entrepreneur? page
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Is Social Entrepreneurship the same as Social Enterprise?
Social enterprises are businesses that trade to generate revenue and deliver a social impact.
Social entrepreneurs are the individuals who are often behind the creation of social enterprises. However, social entrepreneurs are not limited to social enterprise. They employ the best model to further their social mission. These models can include social enterprise, for-profit, not-for-profit, grassroots volunteer projects and campaigns to create systemic change.
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What criteria is there to apply the program?
You will need to demonstrate a few things to be ready to come onto the program:
1. Have an idea/project that you are starting or growing which has a community or environmental benefit.
2. Demonstrate passion, drive and commitment to your idea/project.
3. Have ownership of your idea/project and autonomy for decision-making.
4. Demonstrate at least some initial actions you have taken toward establishing your project
5. Be able to commit to the 9 month program. 2012 program dates are available in the program brochure found in the programs section of the website.
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Can I apply if I work for an organisation?
We occasionally do accept 'intrapreneurs', that is, individuals pursuing a project within an existing organisation. It is important for 'intrapreneurs' to have a strong passion and commitment to the project they wish to pursue. They also need to have ownership and autonomy to make decisions regarding their project. Applications are considered on a case-by-case basis.
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Is the program accredited?
The SSE program is not accredited. The focus of the program is on providing a flexible and responsive environment for social entrepreneurs. SSE is also committed to keeping its program accessible to people regardless of prior learning or literacy skills.
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How is the NEIS (National Enterprise Incentive Scheme) program different to SSE?
There are a few differences between SSE and NEIS:
- The NEIS program was set up to support Enterprise Development, and thus does not provide tailored support for social entrepreneurs or social enterprises. SSE is specifically focused on social enterprises or projects with a social or community benefit.
- NEIS is an accredited program, whereas SSE is not.
- There are no literacy or educational requirements to enter or complete the SSE program.
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I have completed the NEIS program, can I apply?
Yes, we accept people who have completed or who are currently completing the NEIS program. SSE can support you to develop your project idea, but can also develop your personal abilities to run your project. You also get to hear and learn from other people running projects. Students can pursue both programs at the same time.
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If I am unemployed, can I receive Government support while completing SSE?
Yes, this can be arranged on a case-by-case basis through your Job Services Australia provider. The SSE program provides excellent skills development and work experience as the entrepreneurs establish their projects.
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Will SSE provide funding for my project?
No, SSE does not provide funding for student projects. We support students with the skills, knowledge, attitudes and experiences that will help them seek their own funding. Through the course of the program, some students will have the opportunity to meet with funders and practice their pitch. In some of these cases, students have been successful in attaining funds for their project. The success in these cases is dependent upon the student.
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How is SSE different to business incubators or social enterprise support programs?
SSE does not work directly on student projects. We work specifically with the individual entrepreneurs to provide them with the skills, knowledge, attitudes and experiences so that they can turn their project idea into a reality. SSE has an equal focus on personal development as it does on project development.
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What are some of the skills I can expect to learn from SSE?
Personal Skills:
- Identifying key blocks or challenges in your project
- Problem solving challenges using practical processes
- Developing questions that are direct and get to the heart of what you want to know
- Reflection skills
- Effective listening
Project Skills:
- Action planning and prioritising
- Pitching your project effectively to different audiences
- Strategic decision making
- Writing your projects mission, vision and value statements
- Financial reporting and planning
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What is Action Learning?
Action learning is an approach to learning which is based on learning-by-doing. It is also often called practical learning. SSE's experience is that entrepreneurs are much more suited to this type of learning, rather than traditional, theoretical learning (taught content in the classroom). You can find more detail, and explanation, on our Approach to Learning page.
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How much does it cost?
Students pay a $1500 contribution fee towards the program. There are also travel costs for one interstate study block and possibly accommodation costs that will need to be covered by the student. SSE provides full and partial scholarships to cover the remainder of the $24,000 program cost. SSE will work with every student to ensure fees do not present a barrier to participation.
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How do I apply for a scholarship / funded place on the program?
There is no extra application process for a funded place. We will consider scholarships for people who state they require one in the application process.
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What is a Student Contribution Fee?
A Student Contribution Fee of $1,500 is applicable to all students. This fee is part of each student's commitment and contribution to their place on the program.
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How many students do you accept?
Between 20-30 students are accepted for each 9-month program.
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What happens if I miss the application deadline?
Contact us. We would like to hear any one who is interested in our program all year round. If the program you are interested in has started, we can discuss an application for the following program.
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Can I apply for the next program if I have previously applied?
Please contact us if you have previously applied for any SSE program. We would really like to hear from you and how your project or idea has developed and how you think the program can support you in moving your project forward. SSE believes timing is crucial to accessing the program and if you did not participate in one program, we would like to talk to you about future programs.
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How do I get an application form?
Download an Application Form below.
Student Application Form (writable PDF) IMPORTANT: Save the PDF to your computer before filling out! Right click and choose 'save link as' or open in your browser and then save.
Alternative SSE Application Form (Word document). Please only use this alternative version of the application form if you are experiencing problems with the writable PDF.
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Where can I learn about SSE students and fellows and their projects?
All SSE Australia students write their own profile which you can read about here. Please be aware this link takes you to the SSE UK site, where the profiles are currently being hosted.
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What does the program involve?
The 2012 School for Social Entrepreneurs Incubator Program includes 21 face-to-face days made up of seven three-day blocks. One-on-one coaching/ tutoring and small group sessions can be done where and when suits you and the others involved.
Group Blocks: the entire student group participates in interactive sessions with other social entrepreneurs who share their experiences and challenges. They also hear from professionals with expertise in areas such as seeking investment, communications and legal/organisational structures.
One-on-one sessions: each student is assigned a personal coach/tutor to help them move their project forward.
Small group sessions: students are supported by their peers to work through current project challenges and any personal blocks they are facing.
Read our Program Elements for more detailed information.
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