ACU Co-Lab - Social Enterprise Series 2026

The Social Enterprise Series is an intensive eight-week program that equips aspiring changemakers with real-world skills to launch or scale a thriving social enterprise. Whether you're turning an idea into action or taking your existing venture to the next level, this is your launchpad for meaningful change.

Learn from industry experts who've built successful social enterprises and turn theory into practice. You'll gain hands-on experience in everything from human-centred design to pitching investors – culminating in your chance to win $5,000 to bring your vision to life through the Social Enterprise Award.

Engage with a national community of innovators through interactive livestream sessions. Ask questions, share ideas and build connections that extend far beyond the program.

Visit the link for further information and to register

https://www.acu.edu.au/social-enterprise-series-2026

Cost

The Social Enterprise Series is fully subsidised for ACU students, staff and alumni. Community participants can attend the first workshop for free to get a taste of what's possible. Continue your journey with early bird pricing at $75 per workshop, standard pricing at $100 per workshop, or save with our complete bundle at $320 for all eight sessions. All workshops are delivered via livestream to a national audience, creating an interactive learning experience that connects changemakers across the country.

WEEK 1: HOW IMPACT AND BUSINESS MODELS MEET

A social enterprise is a business that puts people and planet first. They trade like

any other business, but exist specifically to make the world a better place.

Wednesday 11 March

4 – 6pm AEDT

Online

WEEK 2: ADDRESSING THE PROBLEM, NOT THE SYMPTOM

What do painkillers, band-aids and workplace pizza parties have in common?

They all address a symptom, but not necessarily the root cause of a problem.

Wednesday 18 March

4 – 6pm AEDT

Online

WEEK 3: HUMAN-CENTRED DESIGN AND LIVING SYSTEMS APPROACH

Social enterprises thrive when they’re grounded in real needs. Human-centred

design connects your mission to lived experience.

Wednesday 25 March

4 – 6pm AEDT

Online

WEEK 4: ASSEMBLING YOUR BUSINESS PUZZLE

Your business model is a puzzle. Value, customers, resources and impact only

create a clear picture when they fit together.

Wednesday 8 April

4 – 6pm AEST

Online

WEEK 5: LEVERAGING YOUR IMPACT STORY AND DIGITAL MARKETING ESSENTIALS

Marketing your social enterprise in 2026 is a whole new ballgame compared to 20

years ago, 10 years ago, even five years ago.

Wednesday 15 April

4 – 6pm AEST

Online

WEEK 6: YOU GET WHAT YOU PITCH FOR: STRATEGIC SHARING FOR IMPACT

The stories that hold our attention have strong characters, a clear narrative and

momentum. A strong pitch follows the same principles, ending with a clear call

to action.

Wednesday 22 April

4 – 6pm AEST

Online

WEEK 7: FINDING YOUR FIRST FUNDS AND MEASURING YOUR IMPACT

You’ve got an idea? Great! Passion and drive to create impact? Perfect! Funding

to run your operations and expand your impact? That’s the next question.

Wednesday 29 April

4 – 6pm AEST

Online

WEEK 8: SUCCESS AND IMPACT WITHOUT FOUNDER BURNOUT

The fire of a social entrepreneur burns bright with purpose. Without care, boundaries and support, burnout sets in, reducing both personal sustainability and long-term impact.

Wednesday 6 May

4 – 6pm AEST

Online