One Year On: How Zoe Built a Community Through Accessible Art Workshops
Twelve months after embarking on her social business journey with support from the Social Enterprise Boost Programme, Zoe Corr remains passionate about bringing creativity to all. PNE caught up with Zoe to discover what’s new at Zone 31 CIC!
After seeing firsthand how many people face barriers to creative opportunities, particularly those with physical disabilities or additional needs, Zoe set out to design engaging, welcoming workshops that everyone could enjoy. Building on the success of these sessions, Zone 31 CIC is now embarking on an exciting new chapter, developing inclusive creative technology that helps residents explore their artistic side, build confidence, and share their work within a supportive community.
“I would advise other entrepreneurs to pursue their idea, nothing ventured, nothing gained. Search for any funding, such as Boost funding or Lottery funding, anything that will give them that helping hand to kickstart their business. There is a lot of support out there, especially from PNE.”
Zoe has developed an innovative painting device designed to attach directly to electric wheelchairs. Once fitted, a lightweight frame holds two paint nozzles connected to cannisters, and with a simple press of a large button, the user can spray paint onto a canvas on the ground, creating bold abstract pieces or detailed designs using stencils. The device has already been trialled at Disability North with great success, leading to new versions of Zoe’s invention being further refined and developed.
“I would also add that the Social Enterprise Boost programme gave me the confidence to pursue my idea because I was accepted onto the programme. It means a lot to know that other people consider your idea to be good enough to warrant the help and funding to develop it.”
To support the growth of this new venture, Zoe continued to engage with the Social Enterprise Boost Programme, accessing funding, receiving 1‑to‑1 guidance from PNE Advisors and Firstport’s David Brewis, and taking part in a range of skills workshops. This support has strengthened her business confidence and equipped her with practical knowledge in finance, admin, and digital communication.
Being part of the Social Enterprise Boost programme has helped Zoe turn Zone 31 from a spark of an idea into a thriving, credible social enterprise. When asked about the future, Zoe shared…
“I plan to take the finished product to schools and other organisations to offer an alternative art activity to those who rarely get to create for themselves. The Push and Paint invention is still in the development stages; however, there is an end in sight for the finished product.”
The Social Enterprise Boost programme is funded by the UK Government. Want to learn more about Social Enterprise Boost and how the project can support your social business? Visit https://www.pne.org/social-enterprise-boost.