Basically, an ecosystem is a collection of parts that are connected. What’s the point of it? Why the exclusive language? Normal businesses connect and we don’t refer to them as having an ecosystem. However, the point is to connect, to learn from, and to share. In the social enterprise space, we use the term ecosystem; …

You’ve heard the term ‘social enterprise ecosystem’, so what is it? Read More »

It seems like a long time ago, but back in 2009, when I was working with manufacturers, I was part of a discussion concerning a Hume region social procurement policy. We brainstormed ways the regional government’s purchasing power could be used to generate positive social and economic outcomes together with efficient delivery of goods, services …

If you are a social business there are real opportunities coming up for you Read More »

You think you have a great idea for a social venture, but how can you be sure? Knowing where to start, and how to undertake a basic analysis of your idea, is simple. Follow the steps in our Social Venture Honeycomb, to help you explore your thinking and to fill in the gaps, so you …

Let’s explore your idea for a social venture Read More »

Social enterprises are not charities or businesses, as we have traditionally known them. Social enterprises blur the lines between these two. They are businesses; in as much as they trade, make money and employ staff. However, profit is not their end game. Social enterprises do these things to tackle social problems, improve communities, and/or benefit …

What is Social Enterprise in Australia? Read More »

The idea and practice of running a social enterprise gets trendier each year – it’s the ‘in thing’ – and for very good reasons. Australian social enterprises operate in every industry within our economy. The ground-breaking Map For Impact report tells us there are 3,500 social enterprises in Victoria, which contribute more than $5 billion …

Map For Impact report – shows us the characteristics and impacts of social enterprises in Victoria Read More »

Starting a social enterprise can be a huge leap of faith. You have to believe in your idea and dare to share it with the world. You need to be prepared to work hard and often that’s slogging away after-hours and on weekends while you rely on your ‘normal’ nine to five job until your …

Grants for Victorian for social enterprises Read More »

We’d like to introduce you to Judy Clarke, a local looking to change her community. Judy is the convener of Transition Village Wallan Inc. (TVW), a group of volunteers who are working to support local homeless people by building a village of tiny houses to provide safe, supported short-term accommodation for people who are experiencing, …

Tiny homes, big idea Read More »

A NEW WAY FOR CHILDREN TO ENJOY BOOKS IS COMING TO YOU, THANKS TO SOCIAL CHANGE 101. We are excited to share the news about Social Change 101, a new initiative that provides an opportunity for local change-makers to develop their social enterprise ideas. The program is funded by the Foundation for Rural & Regional …

Chatabook Read More »