RiSE is now open for organisations looking to grow social enterprise ideas and strengthen community sustainability.
The Unlocking the Potential of Rural Innovation and Social Enterprise (RiSE) project is a cross-border initiative designed to help rural communities discover how social enterprises can drive sustainability and growth.
Supported by PEACEPLUS, a programme managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB), RiSE aims to create new opportunities for community development, business, and economic progress.
The project has received €3,971,440 in funding from PEACEPLUS and is led by Rural Action, working alongside partners such as Irish Rural Link, Social Enterprise Academy (Scotland), and Social Enterprise Northern Ireland (SE NI), with Community Finance Ireland involved as an associate partner.
Through events, networking, and training, RiSE brings rural communities together across borders and traditions. Participating groups will share knowledge and gain practical support in areas such as income generation, sustainability, and expanding access to community services.
Three programme strands
The project has 3 strands
- Strand 1 – Social Enterprise Leadership and Development. This strand focuses on building leadership skills, increasing confidence, and helping individuals and groups develop the capacity to take part in social enterprise projects.
- Strand 2 Making it Happen. Designed to turn ideas into practical action, this strand offers hands-on support and guidance to help organisations bring their social enterprise concepts to life.
- Strand 3 Youth Social Enterprise. This is a youth-centred programme targeted for people aged 14 to 25, aiming to inspire the next generation to shape a more sustainable future.
Who can apply?
RiSE is open to rural organisations across Northern Ireland and the border region of Ireland.
Strands 1 and 2 are for rural organisations in settlements of
- 5,000 people or fewer (Northern Ireland)
- 10,000 people or fewer (border region of Ireland)
Strand 3 is for schools that may be based in larger settlements of up to 18,000, provided rural young people participate.
How to apply
The closing date for the first round of applications is Friday 27 March 2026.
Find more information about RiSE and submit an expression of interest.
First published 9 February 2026
