Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald has launched a new report revealing the impressive scale and contribution of Northern Ireland’s social enterprise sector—an area of growing relevance to local communities and businesses in places like Omagh.
According to the 2025 Northern Ireland Social Enterprise Sector Report, social enterprises generate an estimated £933 million in turnover and support over 17,000 jobs across all regions of Northern Ireland, including many of the most deprived communities. These enterprises are playing a vital role not just in service delivery, but in building a more inclusive and sustainable economy.
Dr Archibald praised the sector’s wide-reaching impact:
“This report provides the most comprehensive picture to date of the region’s social enterprises. These organisations are not only delivering essential services but are also helping to build a more inclusive, sustainable and regionally balanced economy.”
The report, commissioned by the Department for the Economy (DfE), gathers the most up-to-date information on the sector, compares it with other regions, and will help shape future policy and support. Key findings include:
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Over 53% of surveyed social enterprises have been operating for more than 10 years.
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Most focus on community development, support for vulnerable people, health and wellbeing, and employment opportunities.
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Several policy recommendations are outlined to drive future growth and resilience.
The Minister continued:
“I am committed to supporting and strengthening the ongoing impact and sustainability of social enterprises. Findings show the positive growth taking place, whilst highlighting where more can be done to further enhance the sector. Through my Department’s Social Enterprise Action Plan, which is already focusing on a number of the areas highlighted in the report, we will continue to support the sector to achieve its full potential.”
Social enterprises in Omagh and across the wider region are encouraged to engage with the findings and explore opportunities for collaboration, innovation, and growth within this resilient and purpose-driven sector.
