Grassmarket Community Project
09 Jan 2025
- Support
- Edinburgh and Lothians
Grassmarket Community Project (GCP) is a social enterprise based in Edinburgh that supports marginalised individuals through meaningful employment, training, and community activities.
Under CEO Helene van der Ploeg’s leadership, the Grassmarket Community Project operates cafes, workshops, and event services to generate income and sustain its vital mission.
Helene recently participated in the Buy Social Purchase Power Programme, delivered by Social Investment Scotland in partnership with Social Enterprise Scotland. The programme has helped GCP take significant strides in strengthening their business strategy and expanding their impact.
The Purchase Power Programme
The Purchase Power Programme provided Helene and her team with the tools and guidance needed to reassess their approach.
The programme focused on balancing financial sustainability with their social mission, refining product quality, and connecting with buyers who value purpose-driven businesses.
Key Outcomes from Purchase Power:
Strategic Focus
The programme allowed GCP to take a step back and refine their business model. With expert guidance, they developed clear Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and a roadmap for sustainable growth, giving them the direction needed to achieve their financial goals.
Building Buyer Relationships
Meeting buyers eager to support social enterprises was a game-changer. GCP established promising connections, including a potential contract with Morrison’s Construction and partnerships with Historic Environment Scotland. These relationships have boosted income and opened new avenues for their woodwork and tartan workshops.
Collaborations in the Cultural Sector
Through the programme, GCP also partnered with the Assembly Fringe and the Edinburgh Festival Fringe Society, hosting festival staff for a month. This collaboration brought in income, and also raised GCP’s profile within the cultural community.
Balancing Social and Commercial Goals
Helene and her team learned that while customers value the social impact of their purchases, quality and experience are the key drivers. By enhancing their product offerings, GCP has attracted a broader audience of socially conscious and value-driven customers.
Looking Ahead
With insights from the Purchase Power Programme, GCP is steadily progressing toward their financial targets.
The team remains committed to innovation and continuous improvement, ensuring they can continue supporting marginalised individuals while achieving long-term sustainability.
Purchase Power 2025
If you’re inspired by GCP’s story, why not join this year’s Purchase Power Programme?