Meet CERT Consultancy: Working in partnership with Invest East Yorkshire and Invest Hull to provide Expert Support for Social Enterprises

CERT consultancy is working in partnership with Invest East Yorkshire and Invest Hull to provide fully funded, tailored support to social enterprises across Hull and East Yorkshire.  Funded through the UK Shared Prosperity fund, the support provides up to 12 hours expert advice and help from CERT with no cost to the social enterprise.

Overview of CERT Consultancy

CERT Consultancy CIC is a dedicated organisation led by Neil King, with over 25 years of experience in the social economy. With a deep commitment to social and environmental welfare, CERT operates like a business but prioritises social impact over profit. Neil has played a pivotal role in supporting the establishment of over 300 social enterprises, including ventures in computer refurbishment, environmental services, creative industries, and healthcare projects. His work primarily serves communities across Yorkshire, the Humber, and Lincolnshire, where he has built a broad network across the voluntary, public, and private sectors to foster sustainable, socially-focused partnerships.

Expertise and Services

 With a wealth of expertise across multiple areas, CERT Consultancy offers a comprehensive range of support for social enterprises, including:

• Charity Trading Support: Helping charities explore trading opportunities to sustain income while remaining mission-focused.
• Tendering and Procurement: Guidance on navigating complex tender processes to secure essential contracts.
• Social Investment Support: Assistance in raising funds and becoming “investment-ready” for social ventures.
• Social Return on Investment (SROI): Expertise in evaluating social value, helping organisations measure and communicate their impact effectively.
• Financial and Business Planning: Strategic planning to ensure social enterprises have a strong financial foundation.
• Feasibility Studies and Market Research: Providing insights to help new or existing social enterprises identify opportunities and assess viability.
• Community Renewable Energy: Support in establishing renewable energy initiatives, often through community-owned structures.
• Asset Transfers: Facilitating community organisations in acquiring local assets to drive long-term social benefits.

CERT also assists with marketing, feasibility studies, and connecting organisations through a network of over 300 partners, fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing across sectors.

Challenges Facing Social Enterprises

Social enterprises encounter unique challenges, particularly around balancing income generation with their social missions. Sustainable funding is a continual challenge, as is managing growth without overstretching resources. Additionally, many leaders find themselves isolated, struggling to find local, like-minded support. At CERT, we understand these challenges and work diligently to create solutions through our network, helping social enterprises connect, share resources, and grow sustainably.

How We Help Social Enterprises Thrive

CERT Consultancy draws on nearly three decades of experience across diverse fields to address the specific challenges our clients face. Our team brings strategic management expertise, bolstered by a network of social investors and public sector contacts. We focus on connecting organisations for mutual support and developing strategic partnerships that fuel sustainable growth. Our approach to social investment readiness helps social enterprises access critical funds, and we foster strong working relationships with public sector organisations, opening doors to valuable collaborations.

Why We Are Passionate About Social Enterprise

Working in the social enterprise sector is incredibly rewarding. Every day, we are inspired by the innovative, socially conscious individuals we meet—people who are devoted to creating a positive impact in their communities. Social enterprises are often at the forefront of addressing complex issues, and we take pride in developing customised solutions to support their missions. The challenges they face are unique, but the rewards are immense, making our work both fulfilling and meaningful.

Free Sector-Specific Support for Social Businesses in Hull and East Yorkshire
CERT Consultancy offers tailored, one-to-one coaching and mentoring designed to meet the specific needs of your organisation. Benefit from expert guidance and support that can help your social business thrive.

📞 Ready to take the next step? Contact us at 01482 391622 or email business.support@eastriding.gov.uk.