As part of the Social Employment Fund (SEF), the Economic Development Partnership convenes the Social Employment Network (SEN), a community of practice that connects Strategic Implementing Partners (SIPs) and supports collaborative learning. To extend this learning beyond the network, the SEN hosts a series of webinars designed to showcase the depth of expertise within SIPs and highlight the critical role civil society plays in shaping public employment. These sessions not only amplify SIP voices but also help reframe how Public Employment Programmes (PEPs) are understood, demonstrating that they are not just about job creation, but also about building community assets, strengthening local ecosystems, and drawing on the innovation and lived experience of civil society organisations.

The second SEN webinar focused on blended finance, a strategy that combines public and private funding to address development challenges. The session explored how blended finance can multiply resources, reduce investment risks, and create innovative, scalable, and sustainable solutions aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals. Dr Cromhout also shared practical tips on how organisations can approach a blended finance strategy to diversify funding and strengthen impact. See more on blended finance here.