ACRE is a for-purpose social enterprise with a BIG mission. We want a positive, vibrant future for rural & regional Australia. We believe in lighting a spark for young people to think creatively, to be entrepreneurial, to be innovative and to be supported by their community. We offer learning & development programs, community brokerage services, advice & support to build entrepreneurial skills in individuals, organisations, government and community. We educate around the emerging model of Social Enterprise as a means of re-generating rural communities in Australia. ACRE operates the Social Enterprise Academy in Australia through a social license agreement. The Social Enterprise Academy Australia delivers learning and development programs with a focus on learning by doing. The programs are flexible, practical and responsive to the needs of communities and are suitable for a range of learners, from young people through to community organisations and CEO’s. In 2016 ACRE led the community buyback of the Old Beechworth Gaol through a consortium of local investment and philanthropic support. Over time the site will become a vibrant precinct for the social, cultural and economic benefit of the region.