LOCAL SPARK TORBAY

Social Economy Hub: Co-Work+Talk Event #2
2024-03-05 09:00 - 17:00 UTC
Social Economy Hub: Co-Work+Talks Event #2
Talk theme: Alternative Sources of Finance | Talk: 1pm-2pm | Hub opens 9am
Speaker: Steve Chown – Torbay Communities Funding Adviser, Andrew Wade – Brixham YES
Join us for a unique, fun and productive day of co-working at the Social Economy Hub in Paignton, UK. Whether you’re a freelancer, social entrepreneur, or social economy remote worker, you are welcome join us and connect with like-minded individuals, and enjoy a supportive and creative atmosphere.
At Co-Work+Talks Event #2, you’ll have access to a comfortable workspace, high-speed internet, and all the amenities you need to stay focused and motivated. Take advantage of our communal areas, lunchtime talk, and enhanced networking opportunities to boost productivity and expand your professional network.
SECURE YOUR SEAT: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/829828157357?aff=oddtdtcreator
Seats are for TSEN members only, you can easily sign up to become a member in advance of securing your seat if you are a social enterprise or a supporter of social enterprise in Torbay!

Social Economy Hub: Co-Work+Talk Event #3
2024-03-20 09:00 - 17:00
Social Economy Hub: Co-Work+Talks Event #3
Talk theme: Resilient Leadership
Speaker: Thea Platt
Join us for a unique, fun and productive day of co-working at the Social Economy Hub in Paignton, UK. Whether you’re a freelancer, social entrepreneur, or social economy remote worker, you are welcome join us and connect with like-minded individuals, and enjoy a supportive and creative atmosphere.
At Co-Work+Talks Event #3, you’ll have access to a comfortable workspace, high-speed internet, and all the amenities you need to stay focused and motivated. Take advantage of our communal areas, lunchtime talk, and enhanced networking opportunities to boost productivity and expand your professional network.
Don’t miss out on this rare opportunity to work alongside passionate individuals who share your drive and ambition. Whether you’re looking for inspiration, feedback, or simply a change of scenery, the Social Economy Hub: Co-Work+Talks Event #3 has got you covered.
Join us at People’s Parkfield CIC – Parkfield House, Paignton, UK and let’s make this co-working day a memorable one.
Please note, we will be running one further Co-Work+Talks event in March; but once they’re gone they gone. You can of course book a desk any day of the week at the Social Economy Hub, but these special events with self-brought lunch and a special Talk are unique and possibly won’t happen again.
Cost: £15 per seat (and a talk included).
NB. These events are exclusively for TSEN members only who book a seat in the Social Economy Hub on the specific date.
SECURE YOUR SEAT: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/829830042997

Local Spark Monthly Meet-up
2024-04-09 17:00 - 19:00 | People’s Parkfield CIC, Paignton, TQ3 2NH, United Kingdom
Welcome to Local Spark Monthly Meet-up!
Join us at People’s Parkfield CIC – Parkfield House for our monthly gathering of local social enterprisers, aspiring entrepreneurs, experts, catalysts, supporters, creative thinkers and doers! This is the perfect opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals, share ideas, and spark new collaborations.
Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting out, everyone is welcome to attend. Come prepared to network, learn, and be inspired by the vibrant energy of our community. Social enterprise Grove Woods Pizza will be on making delicious pizza!
Mark your calendars and don’t miss out on this exciting event. We can’t wait to see you there!

Let's co-create! How can we catalyse a regenerative entrepreneurial culture in Torbay
2024-07-09 17:00 - 20:00
Join us for this ‘open space’ event to get your ideas on this question: how can we catalyse a regenerative entrepreneurial culture in Torbay? We want to put them into action, now. Let’s create the conditions for local entrepreneurship that benefits people and generates community wealth and wellbeing!
When: 9th July, 5pm – 8pm
Where: People’s Parkfield, Paignton
Just turn up!

Local Spark Networking Meet Up - 10th October 5pm
2024-10-08 17:00 - 2024-10-10 19:00 | People’s Parkfield CIC, Paignton, TQ3 2NH, United Kingdom
Now the season is transitioning to Autumn, you are cordially invited to warm yourself up at People’s Parkfield next Thursday for our next Local Spark meet up. Whether you run a social venture or local business, or are an associate or friend, come along and share with us the great things you’re doing, your future plans and come with any asks you may have for support, and as always with other like-minded folk.
Andrea will facilitate a mini ‘offers & needs’ market, and Chris will have some updates for you – exciting things are happening in the bay and we want to tell you all about them!
We’ll provide some light drinks and nourishing nibbles.
We hope you can join us!
When: 10th October
Time: 5pm – 7pm
Where: People’s Parkfield, Paignton
Tickets: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/local-spark-october-meet-up-tickets-1036826996457?aff=oddtdtcreator&mc_cid=0144273c49&mc_eid=decfcd6a53
Parking is at the rear of the house, but we recommend if you live local to find alternative transport either through car pooling, walking or cycling.

Hack it!
2024-10-26 10:00 - 14:00 | People’s Parkfield CIC, Paignton, TQ3 2NH, United Kingdom
Date: Saturday 26th October 2024
Venue: People’s Parkfield, Paignton
Let’s turn your solutionary idea into a viable, fundable and sustainable business. Join us for the Green & Social Startup Hack! It will be a day of fun innovation and design thinking, creative problem solving and copious aha! moments. We’ll select six promising enterprise ideas and lead their teams through a process, surrounded by business and design experts, that will help them take a giant step toward becoming a real green & social enterprise.
There are two ways to participate. Email Jay on jay@localsparktorbay.org to get involved.
Apply to have your business idea hacked. We’ve got a few slots available.
Criteria include:

Committed entrepreneur(s) who want to take the project forward.
The enterprise idea is green and/or social – that is, it will benefit the people and econ systems of Torbay in some way.

Or join us as a business or design expert, potential customer or beneficiary, a funder or enabler, or interested communitarian who loves Torbay!
This event is delivered with funding from the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund.

4th Torbay Local Entrepreneur Forum & Community of Dragons!
2025-03-22 12:30 - 15:30 | People’s Parkfield CIC, Paignton, TQ3 2NH, United Kingdom
4th Torbay Local Entrepreneur Forum & Community of Dragons!
How do we create new livelihoods and make life better in Torbay? Green, social, and local entrepreneurs make a big difference! Join us!

A friendly Dragons Den pitching event for local entrepreneurs where anyone can invest their expertise, money or enthusiasm.
March 22 at People’s Parkfield
12:30 – Pizza and networking
1:30 – Speakers
2pm – Pitching
3:30 – Closing
Register, here: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/1255404742379?aff=oddtdtcreator

Celebration of Torbay's Social Economy
2025-09-09 17:00 - 19:30 | People’s Parkfield CIC, Paignton, TQ3 2NH, United Kingdom
We’re thrilled to invite you to a special evening celebrating the strength and spirit of Torbay’s social economy!

Thursday, September 11 · 5 – 7:30pm GMT+1. Doors at 4:45pm
The Boathouse
Marine Drive Paignton TQ3 2NJ United Kingdom

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Come and:

● Hear inspiring stories from local changemakers
● Connect with people who are making a difference
● Celebrate the impact of social enterprises in our community
● Enjoy good company (and great refreshments!) right by Preston beach
This is a free event – but spaces are limited, so please reserve your place.
Whether you’re part of the social enterprise world or simply want to learn more about how Torbay’s social economy is making a difference, we’d love to see you there.
Register here: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/celebration-of-torbays-social-economy-tickets-1595863543819

Unlock Local Opportunities
2025-11-04 16:00 - 18:00 | People’s Parkfield CIC, Paignton, TQ3 2NH, United Kingdom
How social enterprises and charities can win more contracts
If you run a social enterprise, charity, or community organisation in Torbay, you might be missing out on funding opportunities that could help you grow your impact.
Many VCSEs want to bid for local contracts, but procurement often feels confusing, overly formal, or only open to big players.
The truth? 50% of local contracts already go to Torbay-based organisations… and there’s room for more.
Join Local Spark Torbay for an engaging session with Torbay Council’s procurement lead, Chanelle Busby, Deputy Head of Commercial Services, and Stuart Hardy, Economic Development Officer as they break it down step by step, helping you understand what to do, where to look, and how to finally feel confident about bidding.
Here’s what we’ll cover:

The new Procurement Act and what it means for the VCSE sector.
How to find and access upcoming contract opportunities.
What councils are really looking for in a winning bid.
How to build partnerships and tell your story effectively.

You can even submit your questions in advance when you register.
Tuesday 4th November, 4–6pmParkfield House, PaigntonDrinks & nibbles provided | Free on-site parking (limited)
Register now to secure your place: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/unlock-local-opportunities-tickets-1837793292209?aff=oddtdtcreator

The BIG Community Ideas Hackathon
2026-01-24 10:00 - 15:00 | People’s Parkfield CIC, Paignton, TQ3 2NH, United Kingdom
The Big Community Ideas Hackathon
A one-day creative sprint where brilliant ideas meet brilliant people.
Saturday 24th January, 10am–3pm | Parkfield House, Paignton
Lunch and refreshments included.

Do you have an idea that could become a social business? Something that helps people or the planet and has the potential to sustain itself financially, but you’re not sure what the next step is?
Or perhaps you love problem-solving, offering practical support, or helping purpose-led projects take off?
Then this event is for you.
The Big Community Ideas Hackathon, hosted by Local Spark Torbay, brings together early-stage social enterprise ideas and a room full of skilled, curious, generous people who want to help them grow.
It’s a lively, collaborative workshop where ideas are explored from every angle, with structured guidance, encouragement and little sparks of inspiration.
Who should take part?

Idea Holders / aka “Hackees” – You might be:

A new or emerging social enterprise idea
A community-benefit idea with the potential to earn its own income
A solution that could help people, nature, climate, animals, wellbeing or the local economy
Early-stage ideas that need shaping, testing or strengthening
A vision that could become a sustainable social business, not a grant-dependent charity

If your idea will benefit Torbay and you’re willing to explore it openly with others, this day is for you!
Spaces are limited – Idea Holders need to apply via an email to jay@localsparktorbay.org
Collaborators aka “Hackers” – You might be:

A marketer, fundraiser, designer or operations specialist
A local business owner or professional
Someone with social enterprise experience
A community-minded problem-solver
Or someone who enjoys contributing ideas and helping purpose-driven projects grow

If you enjoy working with others, meeting new people and putting your skills to good use, you’ll love this day!
Collaborators simply register via Eventbrite. No application needed.

The agenda:

Welcome & warm-up
Idea Holders pitch their idea in a friendly, informal way
Each Idea Holder gets their own space with a team of self selected Collaborators
Creative sessions and structured problem-solving
Expert facilitators throughout
Lunch provided for everyone
Final share-back: each team presents their progressed idea

What you’ll walk away with:

Idea Holders
• A clearer, stronger, more viable social enterprise concept
• A developing value proposition and business model
• Practical next steps to take your idea forward
• New collaborators, supporters and connections
• Genuine momentum
Apply as an Idea Holder – Only 5 spaces available. Applications open now. Email: jay@localsparktorbay.org
Collaborators
• A fun day of creativity and meaningful contribution
• New local connections and networking
• A chance to share your skills for good
• The satisfaction of helping ideas with real potential grow
Register as a Collaborator – Everyone welcome!

5th Torbay Local Entrepreneur Forum & Community of Dragons
2026-03-14 12:30 - 15:30 | People’s Parkfield CIC, Paignton, TQ3 2NH, United Kingdom
How do we create new livelihoods and make life better in Torbay?
Green, social, and local entrepreneurs make a big difference!
Join us!

A friendly Dragons Den pitching event for local entrepreneurs where anyone can invest their expertise, money or enthusiasm.
Interested in pitching? Three slots available for entreprises and startup who best meet the following criteria –

enterprise is ethical, sustainable and appropriately local
demonstrates competence through business plan and/or track record
business model does not rely on donations or grant funding
‘investment’ required would allow venture to ‘get to the next level’ – investment could be financial and/or non-financial.
contributes to the long-term resilience of the community
one slot is reserved for a youth-led enterprise.

The LEF is designed so that everyone benefits!
Register, here: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/local-spark-community-of-dragons-supporting-social-enterprise-in-torbay-tickets-1982348589996?aff=oddtdtcreator
Want to learn more about pitching?
Send Jay an email expressing your interest: jay@localsparktorbay.org
March 14 at People’s Parkfield
12:30 – Food and networking
1:30 – Speakers
2pm – Pitching
3:30 – Closing
Register, here: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/local-spark-community-of-dragons-supporting-social-enterprise-in-torbay-tickets-1982348589996?aff=oddtdtcreator

AI For Good – A Practical Introduction to AI for Beginners
2026-03-23 10:00 - 13:00 | People’s Parkfield, Parfield House, Paignton, TQ32NH, United Kingdom
Monday 23 March | 10.00–1.00 | Parkfield House, Paignton
You’re running a social enterprise in a world that’s changing fast. AI keeps popping up in conversations, newsletters, funding discussions, and LinkedIn posts. You know it matters. You suspect it could help. But you’re not quite sure what it actually is, how it works, or where to begin.
AI feels overwhelming. There’s jargon, bold claims, scary headlines, and tools launching every week.
“Am I behind?” “Should I understand this by now?” “What if I use it wrong?” “It’s too advanced for me”

Technology is here to help people, not confuse or intimidate them. Especially in social impact work, where trust and responsibility matter.
AI For Good is a three-hour, hands-on workshop designed specifically for beginners. The session will provide a clear, reassuring foundation in AI. We’ll explain what AI actually is, what it can do well, where its limits are, and the main types of tools available today.
Addressing common concerns such as hallucinations, data protection, and environmental impact. The aim is to replace uncertainty with understanding. You won’t simply be listening to presentations. The session is designed to be practical and hands-on, with time to apply what you’re learning as you go.

Here’s how the session works:

We build a shared understanding of AI, explore key issues, and identify the human skills that matter most when working intentionally with this technology.
You’ll discover how to write effective prompts and communicate clearly with AI tools.
Using what you’ve learned, you’ll create a simple AI assistant to help solve a real problem from your work or personal life. Something practical. Something you can use the very next day.

If you’re curious about AI but want a more human-centred introduction, book your place now.
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScgH0SO9W2naqD04EdtqoY5fgPMvNVUzPQkW0rlqtyyEZ5Big/viewform
Places are limited to 15 participants to keep the workshop practical and helpful.
Bring your laptop. We’ll provide the Wi-Fi.
You’ll leave with:

A clear understanding of what AI is and isn’t
Confidence to use AI responsibly and productively
Practical prompting skills
Your own simple AI assistant built around a real challenge
A new way of thinking about how AI can amplify your impact

Instead of feeling uncertain or behind, you’ll feel informed, capable and ready to experiment with purpose.
