Ignite Lunch: Business Networking Event presents:

Alex Hannant - CEO - Ākina Foundation

Growing Social Enterprise in the Buller: Utilising Business Models for Social Prosperity

The Buller community in the face of it’s economic downturn has faced increasing social pressures, while NGO’s and community Organisations experience increased demand under diminishing funding resources.

Is there a way for us to create economic development opportunities alongside enhancing our community, social and environmental well-being?

Social Enterprise bridges the gap between the non-profit and business sectors and are essentially businesses that trade for the purpose of making a positive social or environmental impact. Examples of Social Enterprises in New Zealand include Whale Watch Kaikoura, Kilmarnock Enterprises and Salvation Army Op-shops. Locally we have a strong and successful history of social enterprise including the ex-Buller Community Development Company which utilised the profits from it’s business activities to deliver benefits to the community and The Old Ghost Road which has been developed under a social enterprise model.

The West Coast Regional Growth Study has identified opportunities for the development of social enterprise on the West Coast, inparticular in the development of a value-added food and horticulture enterprise in Karamea, while utilising Ākina Foundation’s expertise to develop business capabilities and scope for social enterprise throughout the West Coast.

About Alex and Ākina Foundation:

Alex is Chief Executive of the Ākina Foundation - an independent organisation focused on the growth of social enterprise. Ākina provides a range of development services from early-stage capability building through to investment readiness and capital raising. Ākina works with corporate and philanthropic partners, and plays a lead role in the development of New Zealand’s social enterprise and investment sector. He is also a Board Member of B Lab Australia and New Zealand.

Alex was previously based in the UK, where he was Director of Programmes at LEAD - a global network focused on leadership and sustainable development. He was also Head of Partnerships at the Climate and Development Knowledge Network (CDKN) – a global initiative providing technical advice to decision makers in developing countries.

Further info: http://akina.org.nz/

Ignite Lunch:

Ignite is presenting it's first lunch version of it's regular business networking events which are aimed at inspiring business and entrepreneurs in creating the future prosperity of the Buller region.

Registrations are appreciated for catering purposes, Portside Bistro have developed a special set menu that includes lunch and a house drink for $22. You can select your lunch option during the registration process, payment can be made directly at the venue on the day.

Ignite Lunch with Alex Hannant - Ākina Foundation

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