Spotlight on NC: Collective CIC
In our latest member spotlight, we’re delighted to welcome Mark Brendan, Manager of Collective CIC.
What does your social enterprise do, and why do you do it?
NC: Collective connects businesses with skilled professionals who face barriers to employment from experience with the justice system, creating real, paid work opportunities. We do this because access to meaningful work builds stability, confidence and long-term outcomes, benefiting individuals, employers and wider communities.
What products, services and/or experiences do you currently offer?
NC: Collective delivers remote, project-based professional services including administration, digital and IT support, marketing, research and finance support. We work with a network of skilled associates and manage projects end-to-end, offering businesses flexible support while creating structured, supported
pathways into meaningful work.
What’s your personal motivation?
My motivation comes from lived experience of how difficult it can be to access employment after involvement with the justice system. I’ve seen how quickly skills and potential can be overlooked and I’m driven to create opportunities where people are recognised for what they can do, not judged by their past.
What is next on the horizon for your social enterprise, and how do you plan to get there?
Next, we’re focused on building a strong network of employers and associates, piloting live projects and refining our model through real delivery. We’ll do this by working closely with partners, engaging employers across sectors and ensuring we gather clear evidence of impact as we grow sustainably.
What’s the hardest thing you’ve had to overcome in your social enterprise journey?
One of the hardest challenges has been navigating perceptions, helping people understand that this isn’t about risk, but about recognising skills and potential. Shifting that mindset, while building something credible and sustainable, takes time, trust and consistent, thoughtful engagement.
What is your most satisfying achievement so far?
One of the most satisfying achievements so far has been taking NC: Collective from an idea into something real, securing support, building partnerships and starting meaningful conversations with both employers and individuals. Seeing people engage with the model and recognise its potential has been a strong and encouraging step forward.
How has being a member of Social Enterprise Scotland helped you?
Social Enterprise Scotland has provided valuable opportunities to connect with others across the sector, learn from shared experiences and raise awareness of NC: Collective. Being part of the network will help strengthen our approach and opened up conversations that support our development and future growth.
Who in the social enterprise community inspires you and why?
I’m inspired by people across the sector who use their own lived experience to shape meaningful change. Seeing individuals turn challenges into practical solutions that support others has had a big influence on how we’ve approached building NC: Collective.
What top tips would you give to other social enterprises?
Stay clear on your purpose, but be flexible in how you deliver it. Build relationships early, with partners, employers and the people you’re there to support. Focus on real outcomes, not just activity and don’t overcomplicate things. Start small, learn quickly and let your work speak for itself.
For more information about NC: Collective, please visit their website and LinkedIn.
Want to read more Member Spotlights? Visit our blog. If you’d like to be featured, please email membership@socialenterprise.scot.