Brand authenticity. Consumers want it. They ask tough questions of businesses. How are employees treated? Where do they source their products? How do they give back to community? Companies engaged in social good gain good marks. Increasingly, entrepreneurs are growing aware of this.
The movement for social impact investing follows the creed that profits and purpose do not have to be mutually exclusive. — Forbes
According to a 2015 Nielson study, the success of businesses giving back to their communities is climbing: 66% of consumers will pay more for sustainable brands, up from 55% in 2014. The allure of philanthropic business model yields a number of options, whether starting a for-profit, or seeking partnership as a nonprofit.
Ignoring sustainability in the early days of a company is not only a mistake – it’s a missed opportunity. — Forbes
CNE and the Community Investment Collaborative (CIC) are offering a panel—Maximizing Social Impact: A conversation on social entrepreneurship and community partnerships—about why being a philanthropic business owner matters. This is a unique opportunity to learn about partnership and best practices from both the nonprofit and for-profit perspectives.
Experts will discuss why impactful giving is good for business, how to start the process, strategies for giving, and how to identify your community partners. Attendees will gain cross sector insight, including that from the Charlottesville Albemarle Community Foundation, City Schoolyard Garden, Whole Foods Market, and HAP’NINGS NOW, LLC.
This panel should be of interest to for-profit business owners, leaders interested in social responsibility, and nonprofits looking to partner with for-profit businesses.