Start a social enterprise

Storybox, a Belfast-based social enterprise, sources and sells ethical gifts from local makers, social enterprises, and sustainable brands.

In addition to its online and physical shop, Storybox hosts workshops, classes, and events in its space, creating a hub for purpose-driven businesses to connect, collaborate, and thrive.

Storybox founder, Rachel McIlgorm, explains how being a social enterprise benefits and drives the business's success.

Why I chose to be a social enterprise

"I created Storybox to combine my passion for supporting local businesses with giving back to the community. I wanted to create gifts that felt meaningful and carried a positive impact."

"The social enterprise model felt like the right fit from the start. It aligns with my values of making conscious business choices and encouraging others to do the same. We set up Storybox legally as a social enterprise to hold the business and our future team accountable as we grow. "

"After researching different options, I decided to set up Storybox as a Community Interest Company (CIC). This structure made the most sense, allowing us to reinvest profits into our social mission while still operating as a business."

"As a social enterprise, Storybox focuses on more than selling products. We encourage thoughtful gifting and bring people together to share stories. Whether browsing online, visiting the shop, or joining a community event or workshop, we aim to create connections and make a positive impact."

Advantages and challenges of running a social enterprise

"Running Storybox as a social enterprise delivers a powerful ripple effect with every order - we support local businesses, boost social awareness, and contribute to charities. The knowledge that we've built our business on something greater than simply selling products makes all the difference."

"With the growing demand for ethical and sustainable options, our social enterprise status helps us draw customers who want their purchases to reflect their core values."

"We prioritise balancing profit and purpose in every aspect of our business. From selecting suppliers to setting fair prices, each decision must align with our social mission. We also actively cultivate relationships with like-minded partners and ensure transparency regarding our charitable contributions."

"Partnering with charities allows us to give back to causes that mean a lot to us. It’s not just about donating proceeds – it’s about raising awareness and using our platform to highlight the incredible work these organisations do. We've donated to Friends of the Earth NI and PIPS Suicide Prevention Ireland. We're proud of what we've achieved and hope to continue growing our contributions."

"The main things we look for in the products we sell are quality, sustainability, ethical production, and whether the brand shares our commitment to social impact. Customers can choose from our pre-made gift boxes or customise their own through our ‘Build a Box’ feature. It's important to us to include a variety of businesses – from those with diverse backgrounds to those supporting different causes – so every box tells a bigger story about the brilliant makers and local businesses doing good work."

"Social enterprises often face additional challenges when accessing finance because there isn't always the same level of understanding or tailored support available. Securing funding can be harder while staying true to both commercial and social impact goals."

Support and funding

"My journey benefited from invaluable support provided by Work West and Social Enterprise NI, including mentoring and publicity. The council and the Housing Executive gave us small but important grants, which allowed us to move forward. Every bit of funding helped us grow steadily. I focus on slow and sustainable growth and am happy to maintain this pace."

"Other small business owners offered significant support. Those casual meet-ups, chats, and coffees have been crucial; I honestly don't think the business would be where it is now without them."

Success and growth

"Support networks and funding opportunities greatly contributed to the growth and success of Storybox."

"Initially, I only dreamed of Storybox's potential, never imagining a physical shop."

"Expanding from an online business to moving to Portview Trade Centre has opened up brilliant opportunities to collaborate with other local businesses on site. We now host at least five monthly workshops and pop-up events, from painting and cake decorating to cross-community crafts and book launches, to bring people together, while also showcasing products from Portview-based makers in our gift boxes." 

"Having a physical shop has given customers the chance to see the products and meet the people behind the brand, which brings the Storybox story to life in a much more profound way. It’s also allowed us to offer a more personal experience and build stronger relationships with the local community. I’ve developed a close relationship with my suppliers, and I genuinely love sharing their stories with customers. The impact becomes real when you witness customers’ reactions."

"Our shop offers a welcoming, inclusive space. Local residents appreciate having a community hub on Newtownards Road. Supporting charities like PIPS Suicide Prevention Ireland encourages customers to share their personal experiences and how these charities have helped them."