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Call us on: +44 (0) 28 8224 9494
In this episode of the 60 Second Challenge, Gerard Harkin from Carlton Enterprises shares how his organisation uses business as a force for good. From launching a community bistro to creating jobs in areas of high unemployment, Gerard’s mission is all about upskilling people and building sustainable impact.
Gerard Harkin, representing Carlton Enterprises, joins Nick O’Shiel for the 60 Second Challenge to share his experience launching a social economy business. As a subsidiary of Strathroy Care Services, Carlton Enterprises opened a bistro with a dual mission: to run a viable business and create employment opportunities in areas of high unemployment.
Gerard speaks candidly about the challenges of maintaining their social ethos while remaining financially sustainable. He also reflects on the rewards of seeing skills grow in the community, the importance of professionalism in running a business, and why new founders should seek out all the support available before taking the leap.
Explore Omagh Enterprise’s Start a Business resources to access local guidance and support for your next venture.
Nick O’Shiel:
Hello and welcome to the 60 Second Challenge with Omagh Enterprise Company. I’m Nick O’Shiel, and today I’m with Gerard Harkin of Carlton Enterprises, who’s agreed to take the challenge. Gerard, you’re very welcome.
Gerard Harkin:
Thank you, Nick — pleasure to be here.
Nick O’Shiel:
As you know, the challenge is to answer six questions about your business in 60 seconds. Let’s get started.
First question: Can you describe your business?
Gerard Harkin:
We’re a social economy business. We’ve opened a bistro in the town of Strathroy, and Carlton Enterprises is a subsidiary of Strathroy Care Services. Our aim is to create employment in an area of high unemployment and to increase the local skill base.
Nick O’Shiel:
And your main reason for starting the business was job creation?
Gerard Harkin:
Yes, that’s our guiding ethos — creating jobs and building skills in the area. While we’re not-for-profit, the business must still generate income to sustain employment and community development.
Nick O’Shiel:
What are some of the best things about running the business?
Gerard Harkin:
It’s rewarding — especially seeing people gain employment and skills. It’s also been a huge learning curve. We’re operating at a more professional level and working with legal and regulatory partners, which has helped us grow as an organisation.
Nick O’Shiel:
And the challenges?
Gerard Harkin:
Many! Balancing our social mission with financial viability is tough. We’re learning new business skills constantly and adapting to more formal structures and processes.
Nick O’Shiel:
What advice would you give to someone starting a business?
Gerard Harkin:
Go for it — but learn as much as you can beforehand. Get all the support available and just get on that first rung of the ladder.
Nick O’Shiel:
And in three words or less, how would you describe your experience?
Gerard Harkin:
Challenging, rewarding, and successful — with a strong feel-good factor for everyone involved.
Nick O’Shiel:
Great stuff. We’ll stop the clock there. Gerard, in 2 minutes and 28 seconds, you’ve met the challenge. Thank you!
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Charity No: 101885. Company Registration No: N. Ireland 17785
