Finding the right instruments to implement socially innovative ideas can be challenging. Many social entrepreneurs and community enterprises are not sure what financial instruments are available for social entrepreneurs in the UK, or how to go about seeking investment outside of mainstream models of business investment and investor networks. Much funding that is available for start up and business development is focused on the bottom line, and the financial health of an organisation long term. Organisations with a social mission often struggle to contend and compete within these frameworks. These more traditional models can prevent small and grassroots organisations from affecting the change they wish to see because of unsuitable impact and reporting frameworks.

There is a growing interest in offering finance options that take into account social and environmental impact. Many funders and investors now ask for evidence of the social and environmental impact a project or enterprise will have. Many organisations are exploring models that make use of a diverse range of sources of funding and investment for their idea. Public organisations are looking at alternative models for procurement and funding of projects that promise social impact.

During this session we will hear from leading organisations in different regions of the UK about funding projects and businesses with social and environmental missions, and also about the ways in which we can start reshape our local economies to empower marginalised groups and local communities. This will be an online Zoom session. The panel discussion will be followed by audience questions. Our key speakers on the panel are:

• Colin McMillan, Investment & Growth Manager – Firstport

• Glenn Bowen, Enterprise Programme Director – Social Business Wales

• Kai Wooder, Director of Programmes – Rank Foundation

LINK TO JOIN: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/370858968157