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X-WR-CALNAME:LOCAL SPARK TORBAY
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X-WR-CALDESC:Events for LOCAL SPARK TORBAY
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20240409T170000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20240409T190000
DTSTAMP:20260416T040137
CREATED:20240320T165325Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240320T165325Z
UID:254119-1712682000-1712689200@localsparktorbay.org
SUMMARY:Local Spark Monthly Meet-up
DESCRIPTION:Welcome to Local Spark Monthly Meet-up! \nJoin 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. \nWhether 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! \nMark your calendars and don’t miss out on this exciting event. We can’t wait to see you there!
URL:https://localsparktorbay.org/event/local-spark-monthly-meet-up/
LOCATION:People’s Parkfield CIC\, Paignton\, TQ3 2NH\, United Kingdom
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20240709T170000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20240709T200000
DTSTAMP:20260416T040137
CREATED:20240611T094440Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240611T094510Z
UID:254163-1720544400-1720555200@localsparktorbay.org
SUMMARY:Let's co-create! How can we catalyse a regenerative entrepreneurial culture in Torbay
DESCRIPTION: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! \nWhen: 9th July\, 5pm – 8pm \nWhere: People’s Parkfield\, Paignton \nJust turn up!
URL:https://localsparktorbay.org/event/lets-co-create-how-can-we-catalyse-a-regenerative-entrepreneurial-culture-in-torbay/
CATEGORIES:Devon Event,Local Spark event
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20241008T170000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20241010T190000
DTSTAMP:20260416T040137
CREATED:20241002T090017Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241010T084915Z
UID:255378-1728406800-1728586800@localsparktorbay.org
SUMMARY:Local Spark Networking Meet Up - 10th October 5pm
DESCRIPTION: 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. \nAndrea 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! \nWe’ll provide some light drinks and nourishing nibbles. \nWe hope you can join us! \nWhen: 10th October \nTime: 5pm – 7pm \nWhere: People’s Parkfield\, Paignton \nTickets: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/local-spark-october-meet-up-tickets-1036826996457?aff=oddtdtcreator&mc_cid=0144273c49&mc_eid=decfcd6a53 \nParking 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.
URL:https://localsparktorbay.org/event/local-spark-networking-meet-up/
LOCATION:People’s Parkfield CIC\, Paignton\, TQ3 2NH\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Devon Event,Local Spark event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://localsparktorbay.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/parkfield-house-5.jpeg
ORGANIZER;CN="Andrea Gamson":MAILTO:andrea@localsparktorbay.org
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20241026T100000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20241026T140000
DTSTAMP:20260416T040137
CREATED:20240930T072044Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241018T121903Z
UID:255375-1729936800-1729951200@localsparktorbay.org
SUMMARY:Hack it!
DESCRIPTION:Date: Saturday 26th October 2024\nVenue: People’s Parkfield\, Paignton \nLet’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. \nThere are two ways to participate. Email Jay on jay@localsparktorbay.org to get involved. \nApply to have your business idea hacked. We’ve got a few slots available. \nCriteria include: \n\nCommitted entrepreneur(s) who want to take the project forward.\nThe enterprise idea is green and/or social – that is\, it will benefit the people and econ systems of Torbay in some way.\n\n\nOr join us as a business or design expert\, potential customer or beneficiary\, a funder or enabler\, or interested communitarian who loves Torbay! \nThis event is delivered with funding from the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund.
URL:https://localsparktorbay.org/event/hack-it/
LOCATION:People’s Parkfield CIC\, Paignton\, TQ3 2NH\, United Kingdom
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://localsparktorbay.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/graphics-7.jpg
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250322T123000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250322T153000
DTSTAMP:20260416T040137
CREATED:20250103T085751Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250305T130634Z
UID:255426-1742646600-1742657400@localsparktorbay.org
SUMMARY:4th Torbay Local Entrepreneur Forum & Community of Dragons!
DESCRIPTION:4th Torbay Local Entrepreneur Forum & Community of Dragons!\nHow do we create new livelihoods and make life better in Torbay? Green\, social\, and local entrepreneurs make a big difference!  Join us!\n\nA friendly Dragons Den pitching event for local entrepreneurs where anyone can invest their expertise\, money or enthusiasm. \nMarch 22 at People’s Parkfield\n12:30 – Pizza and networking\n1:30 – Speakers\n2pm – Pitching\n3:30 – Closing \nRegister\, here: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/1255404742379?aff=oddtdtcreator
URL:https://localsparktorbay.org/event/4th-torbay-local-entrepreneur-forum-community-of-dragons/
LOCATION:People’s Parkfield CIC\, Paignton\, TQ3 2NH\, United Kingdom
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250909T170000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250909T193000
DTSTAMP:20260416T040137
CREATED:20250909T085154Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250909T085154Z
UID:255473-1757437200-1757446200@localsparktorbay.org
SUMMARY:Celebration of Torbay's Social Economy
DESCRIPTION:We’re thrilled to invite you to a special evening celebrating the strength and spirit of Torbay’s social economy!\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThursday\, September 11 · 5 – 7:30pm GMT+1. Doors at 4:45pm\nThe Boathouse\nMarine Drive Paignton TQ3 2NJ United Kingdom\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n_____________\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nCome and:\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n● Hear inspiring stories from local changemakers\n● Connect with people who are making a difference\n● Celebrate the impact of social enterprises in our community\n● Enjoy good company (and great refreshments!) right by Preston beach\nThis is a free event – but spaces are limited\, so please reserve your place.\nWhether 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.\nRegister here: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/celebration-of-torbays-social-economy-tickets-1595863543819
URL:https://localsparktorbay.org/event/celebration-of-torbays-social-economy/
LOCATION:People’s Parkfield CIC\, Paignton\, TQ3 2NH\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Local Spark event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://localsparktorbay.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Event1_TorbaySocialEconomy_EventbriteHeader.jpg
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20251104T160000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20251104T180000
DTSTAMP:20260416T040137
CREATED:20251022T175830Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251022T175830Z
UID:255770-1762272000-1762279200@localsparktorbay.org
SUMMARY:Unlock Local Opportunities
DESCRIPTION:How social enterprises and charities can win more contracts \nIf 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. \nMany VCSEs want to bid for local contracts\, but procurement often feels confusing\, overly formal\, or only open to big players. \nThe truth? 50% of local contracts already go to Torbay-based organisations… and there’s room for more. \nJoin 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. \nHere’s what we’ll cover: \n\nThe new Procurement Act and what it means for the VCSE sector.\nHow to find and access upcoming contract opportunities.\nWhat councils are really looking for in a winning bid.\nHow to build partnerships and tell your story effectively.\n\nYou can even submit your questions in advance when you register. \nTuesday 4th November\, 4–6pmParkfield House\, PaigntonDrinks & nibbles provided | Free on-site parking (limited) \nRegister now to secure your place: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/unlock-local-opportunities-tickets-1837793292209?aff=oddtdtcreator
URL:https://localsparktorbay.org/event/unlock-local-opportunities/
LOCATION:People’s Parkfield CIC\, Paignton\, TQ3 2NH\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Local Spark event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://localsparktorbay.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Screenshot-2025-10-22-at-18.56.59.png
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260124T100000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260124T150000
DTSTAMP:20260416T040137
CREATED:20251209T191844Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251211T191511Z
UID:255781-1769248800-1769266800@localsparktorbay.org
SUMMARY:The BIG Community Ideas Hackathon
DESCRIPTION:The Big Community Ideas Hackathon \nA one-day creative sprint where brilliant ideas meet brilliant people.\nSaturday 24th January\, 10am–3pm | Parkfield House\, Paignton\nLunch and refreshments included.\n\n\nDo 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? \nOr perhaps you love problem-solving\, offering practical support\, or helping purpose-led projects take off? \nThen this event is for you. \nThe 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.\nIt’s a lively\, collaborative workshop where ideas are explored from every angle\, with structured guidance\, encouragement and little sparks of inspiration. \nWho should take part? \n\nIdea Holders / aka “Hackees” – You might be:\n\nA new or emerging social enterprise idea\nA community-benefit idea with the potential to earn its own income\nA solution that could help people\, nature\, climate\, animals\, wellbeing or the local economy\nEarly-stage ideas that need shaping\, testing or strengthening\nA vision that could become a sustainable social business\, not a grant-dependent charity\n\nIf your idea will benefit Torbay and you’re willing to explore it openly with others\, this day is for you!\nSpaces are limited – Idea Holders need to apply via an email to jay@localsparktorbay.org\nCollaborators aka “Hackers” – You might be:\n\nA marketer\, fundraiser\, designer or operations specialist\nA local business owner or professional\nSomeone with social enterprise experience\nA community-minded problem-solver\nOr someone who enjoys contributing ideas and helping purpose-driven projects grow\n\nIf you enjoy working with others\, meeting new people and putting your skills to good use\, you’ll love this day!\nCollaborators simply register via Eventbrite.  No application needed.\n\n\nThe agenda: \n\n\n\nWelcome & warm-up\nIdea Holders pitch their idea in a friendly\, informal way\nEach Idea Holder gets their own space with a team of self selected Collaborators\nCreative sessions and structured problem-solving\nExpert facilitators throughout\nLunch provided for everyone\nFinal share-back: each team presents their progressed idea\n\n\n\n\n\nWhat you’ll walk away with: \n\n\n\nIdea Holders\n• A clearer\, stronger\, more viable social enterprise concept\n• A developing value proposition and business model\n• Practical next steps to take your idea forward\n• New collaborators\, supporters and connections\n• Genuine momentum \nApply as an Idea Holder – Only 5 spaces available. Applications open now. Email: jay@localsparktorbay.org\nCollaborators\n• A fun day of creativity and meaningful contribution\n• New local connections and networking\n• A chance to share your skills for good\n• The satisfaction of helping ideas with real potential grow \nRegister as a Collaborator – Everyone welcome!
URL:https://localsparktorbay.org/event/the-big-community-ideas-hackathon/
LOCATION:People’s Parkfield CIC\, Paignton\, TQ3 2NH\, United Kingdom
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://localsparktorbay.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/image_lst-hack.webp
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260314T123000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260314T153000
DTSTAMP:20260416T040137
CREATED:20260128T175604Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260210T142937Z
UID:255795-1773491400-1773502200@localsparktorbay.org
SUMMARY:5th Torbay Local Entrepreneur Forum & Community of Dragons
DESCRIPTION:How do we create new livelihoods and make life better in Torbay? \nGreen\, social\, and local entrepreneurs make a big difference!  \nJoin us!\n\nA friendly Dragons Den pitching event for local entrepreneurs where anyone can invest their expertise\, money or enthusiasm.\nInterested in pitching? Three slots available for entreprises and startup who best meet the following criteria –\n\nenterprise is ethical\, sustainable and appropriately local\ndemonstrates competence through business plan and/or track record\nbusiness model does not rely on donations or grant funding\n‘investment’ required would allow venture to ‘get to the next level’ – investment could be financial and/or non-financial.\ncontributes to the long-term resilience of the community\none slot is reserved for a youth-led enterprise.\n\nThe LEF is designed so that everyone benefits! \nRegister\, here: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/local-spark-community-of-dragons-supporting-social-enterprise-in-torbay-tickets-1982348589996?aff=oddtdtcreator\nWant to learn more about pitching?\nSend Jay an email expressing your interest: jay@localsparktorbay.org\nMarch 14 at People’s Parkfield\n12:30 – Food and networking\n1:30 – Speakers\n2pm – Pitching\n3:30 – Closing\nRegister\, here: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/local-spark-community-of-dragons-supporting-social-enterprise-in-torbay-tickets-1982348589996?aff=oddtdtcreator
URL:https://localsparktorbay.org/event/5th-torbay-local-entrepreneur-forum-community-of-dragons/
LOCATION:People’s Parkfield CIC\, Paignton\, TQ3 2NH\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Local Spark event
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260323T100000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260323T130000
DTSTAMP:20260416T040137
CREATED:20260309T134321Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260309T134321Z
UID:255810-1774260000-1774270800@localsparktorbay.org
SUMMARY:AI For Good – A Practical Introduction to AI for Beginners
DESCRIPTION:Monday 23 March | 10.00–1.00 | Parkfield House\, Paignton\nYou’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. \nAI feels overwhelming. There’s jargon\, bold claims\, scary headlines\, and tools launching every week.\n“Am I behind?” “Should I understand this by now?” “What if I use it wrong?” “It’s too advanced for me”\n\nTechnology is here to help people\, not confuse or intimidate them. Especially in social impact work\, where trust and responsibility matter. \nAI 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. \nAddressing 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. \n\nHere’s how the session works:\n\nWe build a shared understanding of AI\, explore key issues\, and identify the human skills that matter most when working intentionally with this technology.\nYou’ll discover how to write effective prompts and communicate clearly with AI tools.\nUsing 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.\n\nIf you’re curious about AI but want a more human-centred introduction\, book your place now.\nhttps://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScgH0SO9W2naqD04EdtqoY5fgPMvNVUzPQkW0rlqtyyEZ5Big/viewform \nPlaces are limited to 15 participants to keep the workshop practical and helpful. \nBring your laptop. We’ll provide the Wi-Fi. \nYou’ll leave with: \n\nA clear understanding of what AI is and isn’t\nConfidence to use AI responsibly and productively\nPractical prompting skills\nYour own simple AI assistant built around a real challenge\nA new way of thinking about how AI can amplify your impact\n\nInstead of feeling uncertain or behind\, you’ll feel informed\, capable and ready to experiment with purpose.
URL:https://localsparktorbay.org/event/ai-for-good-a-practical-introduction-to-ai-for-beginners/
LOCATION:People’s Parkfield\, Parfield House\, Paignton\, TQ32NH\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Local Spark event,workshop
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://localsparktorbay.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Event3_AIForGood_WebsiteHeader.png
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