From Dublin to Dubrovnic, change is afoot across Europe: citizens, business, entrepreneurs and policy makers are responding to social, economic and environmental challenges through social innovation, new forms of investment and surprising solutions. This has given rise to a budding social enterprise entrepreneurship sector which is fast taking root in Ireland and throughout Europe.
To build on this momentum, the European Commission and the European Economic and Social Committee will be hosting free conference early next year in Strasbourg France.
Have Your Say! is a free two-day event on 16 - 17 January that will bring together a wide range of stakeholders to discuss the future of social enterprise and entrepreneurship in Europe.
This is a great opportunity for all those interested in the field to come together, to co-create a coherent pathway and continue building a healthy and vibrant social entrepreneurship sector.
This event is more than just another conference – its approach is unique and engaging, allowing participants to work during two days in a participatory way.
It is hoped that the event will culminate in a number of recommendations for the incoming EU Commission. We strongly encourage anyone with an interest in the field to attend this free conference.
Register now.Meanwhile in Dublin...
In preparation for the conference in Strasbourg, the Hub for Social Enterprise and Entrepreneurship Development (SEED) in partnership with Clann Credo and the Irish Social Finance Centre (ISFC) is hosting a free event at the European Parliament Information Office in Dublin on 14 November. Speakers will include:
- Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government, Phil Hogan TD
- Ariane Rodert, Vice-President of the European Social and Economic Committe
Social Enterprise and Entrepreneurship Development: Have Your Say - Ireland! 
Venue: European Parliament Information Office, 43 Molesowrth Street, Dublin 2 (
map)
Date: 14th November 2013
Time: 2.30pm Registration
PROGRAMME
2.30 Registration
3.00 Welcome and Introduction from the Chair Dr Emer Ní
Bhrádaigh
3.05 Opening by Phil Hogan TD, Minister for Environment,
Community & Local Government
3.25 Ariane Rodert, Vice President of European Economic
and Social Committee
3.45 Social Enterprises Creating Jobs: Case Study
Maria Kyte, Waterford & Suir Valley Railway
4.00 Social Enterprise and Entrepreneurship Development
Paul O’Sullivan, CEO, Clann Credo
4.15 Have Your Say! - Gathering inputs to Strasbourg
Conference: Ann Clarke
4.45 to 5.30 Tea / Coffee & Networking
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