In October 2025, as part of the SICAP Programme Supporting Social Enterprises, Monaghan Integrated Development CLG (MID) successfully completed a Finance Management Training Programme aimed at strengthening the financial capacity of social enterprises and community organisations across County Monaghan.
Following a Training Needs Analysis (TNA) conducted with local social enterprises and community groups, a clear demand emerged for enhanced skills in financial management. In direct response, MID designed a structured four-week training programme focused on practical, hands-on financial management tailored to the needs of social enterprises. This initiative was delivered in line with one of the key recommendations of the Co. Monaghan Social Enterprise Strategy, which highlights the importance of capacity building to support the sustainability and growth of the sector.
The training was delivered over four weekly sessions and covered essential areas including bookkeeping fundamentals, cash books and ledgers, daily cashflow management, Profit & Loss accounts, balance sheets, and interpreting financial reports for organisational decision-making. The programme was expertly delivered by Gordon McArdle, whose extensive knowledge and practical approach were highly valued by participants.
In total, 11 social enterprises and community organisations completed the training. Participant feedback highlighted a 100% satisfaction rate, with all participants confirming that the training met its objectives and significantly improved their confidence and ability to manage organisational finances. Key outcomes included increased confidence in producing and understanding financial reports, improved record-keeping practices, and valuable peer learning and networking opportunities.
An important additional outcome of this initiative was the initiation of the Co. Monaghan Social Enterprise Network, which will hold its first official meeting in January 2026. The Network will provide an ongoing platform for collaboration, peer learning, and future capacity-building supports for social enterprises across the county.
This training represents a key SICAP capacity-building action, focused on strengthening the long-term sustainability of social enterprises by enhancing their ability to manage trading activities effectively and prepare for future funding and growth opportunities.
Contact Us
If your social enterprise is interested in capacity-building supports, including business planning, funding applications, or joining the Co. Monaghan Social Enterprise Network, please contact our Community Enterprise Development Officer, Jeyald Rasaratnam, at jantony@midl.ie.
Learn More
Find out more about how SICAP can support you by visiting the SICAP programme page or watch this video about social enterprise supports: