ACE Popcorn Social Enterprise

Main information

Service categories: Information, advice and advocacy, Social care and residential services

Secondary URL: https://www.autismeastmidlands.org.uk/

ACE Popcorn is a social enterprise run by Autism East Midlands (AEM) and exists to create jobs for autistic people. Every kernel of our delicious popcorn is made by an autistic person employed by AEM, who specialises in person-centred support for autistic adults, children and families across the East Midlands.

Based at our Training, Employment and Social Enterprise centre, ACE Popcorn combines artisan food production with person-centred workplace support, helping autistic individuals build confidence, skills and independence in an environment designed for them to thrive.

Every kernel we produce is made with care by autistic team members employed by AEM. From preparing the corn to mastering Poppi, our air popper, and packaging the popcorn for sale; every step of the process is managed by our staff. Each batch sold has been carefully separated, flavoured and finished by autistic staff that have been trained and supported by Autism East Midlands.

As a social enterprise, every bag you buy is supporting Autism East Midlands’ work for autistic individuals, children and families across the East Midlands. So whether you prefer your popcorn loaded with cheeky caramel, sugar-dusted into a sweet flavour or stirred into a hardy salted mix, you know that you’re making a difference.

We launched ACE Popcorn because we understand that traditional job applications and workplaces can create barriers for autistic people. Our mission is to remove those barriers by providing supportive coaching, structured skills development and a workplace that celebrates individuality. As a specialist autism charity, Autism East Midlands brings decades of experience in employment support, day services and residential care across Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire.

We aim to use this social enterprise to create pathways into work, help our autistic staff members to build their confidence in the workplace and prove what’s possible when autistic people are given the chance to shine.