An introduction to social enterprise: from theory to practice
20 May 2025, 3:00 pm–5:00 pm

Learn what social entrepreneurship is and how to set up your own social enterprise. Free 2-hour beginners’ workshop for students, staff and recent graduates.
Event Information
Open to
- UCL staff | UCL students | UCL alumni
Availability
- Yes
Organiser
-
UCL Innovation & Enterprise
Location
-
UCL BaseKX103c Camley StreetLondonN1C 4PF
Overview
Social enterprises are businesses which help people and communities. They use their profits make a real social and environmental impact. They can be big or small, and exist in every sector of the economy.
In this workshop you’ll learn about social enterprise theory and what to consider when setting one up. You’ll also explore examples from the UK and beyond and the ‘state of the sector’ globally.
Who it’s for
Entrepreneurship is for everyone.
This workshop is for students, staff and recent graduates (within 2 years of graduating) who are new to social entrepreneurship or looking to refine their knowledge.
You don't need any business experience or an idea for a social enterprise to attend.
What you’ll learn
This workshop will cover:
- the theory of social enterprise and entrepreneurship
- practical examples of how social enterprises work in the UK and beyond
- key statistics and an overview of the ‘state of the sector’ globally
What to expect
This is an interactive, activity-based workshop held at BaseKX, UCL’s entrepreneurship hub in King’s Cross.
In groups you’ll discuss topical, well known examples of social enterprise, as well as your own entrepreneurial journeys, personal stories and motivations.
About the tutor
Peter Ptashko is a social entrepreneur, funder and supporter of social entrepreneurs. He has over 15 years of experience working in the field of social enterprise globally. He launched his first venture in 2005, raising £25,000 in only 7 hours. Since then, he’s worked for UnLtd: the UK foundation for social entrepreneurs, supporting thousands of social entrepreneurs to start and grow their businesses.
Accessibility
If you have any accessibility requirements or requests, please let us know in the signup form.
Photography
Filming and photography occasionally take place at our workshops and events. We use these photos and recordings to help promote future events through our website and social media channels. You can always choose not to be included in any photos or videos.
Date and times
Tuesday, 20 May 2025, 3pm to 5pm.
Read our privacy notice to understand how UCL Innovation & Enterprise will deal with your personal data.
UCL Innovation & Enterprise reserves the right to make changes to the programme, location and/or speakers without prior notice. Such alterations are occasionally necessary due to circumstances beyond our control.
Location
UCL BaseKX, 103c Camley Street, London, N1C 4PF