Need a bit of lunchtime motivation? Our Lunch With… events offer a great way to help you learn from others in and out of the social enterprise sector.

Come and hear one account from Matt Hill, Co-founder and Managing Director at Sheffield’s city centre co-working hub, Union St. Discover his inspiring story which has taken him from supporting unemployed people to develop new start-ups, to giving policy suggestions at 10 Downing Street.

Matt was motivated by finding community and culture in independent venues whilst at university and by reading about the new phenomenon of co-working which was described as a ‘modern day village commons’. After moving to the city to work as a start-up mentor at The Sheffield College, Matt and his co-founders set on a mission to find landlords with empty buildings, who might consider the benefits of an initial ‘meanwhile use’ lease.

At first, the prospect of taking on 18-20 Union Street seemed almost overwhelming. Empty for a number of years, the building had no central heating, no double glazing, and the team had no money to invest in the 4,000 square feet of 1970s office space.

Fast forward 10 years and Matt has developed three social enterprise ‘anchor tenants’ for each of the key floors. The co-working co-operative has over 100 members, with discounts available for those who get involved in creating their ever expanding programme of member activities at lunch times, afternoon themed tea breaks, and evening socials.

The lunch at this event is on us! You’ll get the chance to try some of the tasty veggie and vegan street food provided by Icarus & Apollo, previous recipients of support from The School for Pop-Ups, based at Union St.

After hearing from Matt and engaging in some discussion, there’ll be the opportunity for those that wish to view the extensive co-working and meeting facilities at Union St. and to meet some of the many freelancers and entrepreneurs working there. Anyone attending the event will also receive a voucher for a fortnight’s free co-working and a 50% discount off the first month’s rates.

Union St is just 10 minutes walk up the hill from the train station and is one block away from the Peace Gardens, directly opposite Howden House and the Post Office. Although we recommend public transport wherever possible, the nearest car park is the iconic ‘cheese grater’ Q-Park on Charles Street, with a cheaper option being the NCP Car Park on Wellington Street.

We have limited spaces for this event. Book early to avoid disappointment! We ask that you please register at least 72 hours prior to the event. Although the event is free, if you find that you are no longer able to make your place, please do try to give us 72 hours notice so that we can give relevant numbers to the catering team.

Delivered by Sheffield Social Enterprise Network, in partnership with Social Enterprise Exchange.