Social Impact Alliance for CEE’s Post

We’ve officially closed out eight months of 2024, and as the winds of change blow September into full swing we’re offered an opportunity to reflect on what has been an historical year thus far. South Africa is governed by a coalition of parties under the umbrella of a government of national unity, Eskom kept the lights on during winter with loadshedding suspended for almost six months now, interest rates are set to fall and the Springboks beat the All Blacks … again. What a difference eight months can make! With spirits lifted somewhat, we commemorate Heritage Month, and we are reminded of the power of culture, diversity, and unity in shaping South Africa’s rich social fabric. In this spirit of unity, it is through collaboration and connection that we can address the country’s pressing social and environmental challenges. One of my highlights of this year has been to witness the changing attitudes of business leaders, as they realise their influence in driving change and collaboration. It is apt that the theme of this year’s Trialogue Business in Society Handbook is ‘Collaborating for change’. This theme resonates strongly with the values of Heritage Month. By fostering partnerships across sectors and communities, businesses and social organisations can drive impactful change, preserving our cultural heritage while addressing the urgent needs of today. Grab a coffee, hit pause and explore the newsletter for more on the latest developments at Trialogue.

The latest edition of Sustainable Times is here!   Our quarterly newsletter is packed with insights to help you drive social impact. Whether you're in sustainability, corporate social investment (CSI) or leading a nonprofit, Sustainable Times provides you with actionable strategies and thought leadership to make a real difference.   In this issue: Communicating impact: Find out how you can have your responsible business initiatives showcased in our annual Business in Society Handbook which will be launched in December. Thought leadership: Read the latest articles and insights on Trialogue's Knowledge Hub, the leading information resource for social investors in Africa. Inspiring case studies: Learn how the Vodacom Foundation and the Liberty Community Trust are leveraging their CSI strategies to drive change in communities across the country. Highlights: Find out what we've been working on in recent months. Stay informed on the latest social impact trends, access expert insights, and discover innovative approaches to solving South Africa’s most pressing challenges.   Subscribe now to get future editions of Sustainable Times delivered straight to your inbox: https://lnkd.in/dtUJm7mp Don’t miss out on the leading resource for sustainability and CSI professionals and NPOs!   You can also download the PDF version of the September newsletter: https://lnkd.in/dbFBBAk6

Really looking forward to leading the next in our webinar series. A key topic that is on point globally.

Dive into the world of sustainability with our "ESG Essentials" seminar on 11 and 12 March. In collaboration with Enterprise Singapore, our industry specialists will unravel ESG principles, and guide you to fortify resilience and give your organisation a competitive edge. Engage with us to make a positive impact on your business and the environment. Key highlights: 1. Fundamental ESG concepts and updates on industry trends 2. Discussions on practical methodologies to seamlessly integrate sustainability principles into your business operations 3. Networking opportunities with industry professionals, fostering valuable connections for future collaborations Register here: https://deloi.tt/49jYOOT For detailed course information, visit: https://deloi.tt/3UorFgR 70% funding by Enterprise Singapore for eligible Singapore companies. Institutions of higher learning, charities, IPCs, and public sector agencies that are not eligible for EnterpriseSG course subsidy, please contact seadlsenquiries@deloitte.com for more information on applicable discounted rates. #DeloitteSEA #ESGEssentials #DeloittexEnterpriseSG

🎉 We are proud and happy to announce another sponsor of the 26th Annual Conference Embracing Diversity for Inclusive Finance. 🌍 responsAbility Investments AG is a leading impact asset manager specializing in private market investments across three investment themes to directly contribute to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): Financial Inclusion, to finance the growth of Micro & SMEs; Climate Finance, to contribute to a net zero pathway; and Sustainable Food, to sustainably feed an ever-growing population. All responsAbility investment solutions target specific measurable impact alongside market returns. Since its inception in 2003, responsAbility has deployed over USD 15.4 billion in impact investments. With over 270 employees collaborating across eight offices, as of 31 December 2023 the company manages USD 4.8 billion in assets across approximately 280 portfolio companies in 69 countries. Since 2022 responsAbility is part of M&G plc, the international savings, and investments business, and contributes to enhancing M&G’s capabilities in impact investing. Find out more: www.responsability.com 🔗Register today: https://bit.ly/2024mfc #2024MFC #microfinance #socialeconomy #EU

Tanzania’s Most Coveted Sustainability Award is Back for 2024! 🌍 We are thrilled to announce that the Business SDG Awards, a hallmark initiative of the UN Global Compact local chapter, Global Compact Network Tanzania (GCNT), is returning for its 2024 edition! This prestigious award recognizes and celebrates companies in Tanzania that are leading the way in corporate sustainability and making significant strides towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). 🏆 Why Participate? The Business SDG Awards represent the pinnacle of recognition for organizations that have integrated sustainable practices into their core operations. By participating, your company not only gains visibility but also joins a community of like-minded businesses committed to fostering a sustainable future. This is an opportunity to showcase your innovative solutions and exemplary practices that contribute to a better world. 🌱 Who Should Apply? Are you part of a company or organization that embodies exemplary sustainable practices? Have you developed an innovative solution that addresses pressing global challenges? If so, we want to hear from you! The awards are open to all businesses operating in Tanzania, regardless of size or sector. Whether you’re a startup with groundbreaking ideas or an established corporation with robust sustainability initiatives, your contributions matter Join us in this exciting journey towards #sustainability! Together, we can create a ripple effect of positive change across #Tanzania and beyond. For more information about the Business SDG Awards and how to apply, visit; https://lnkd.in/dsjAMMk5 Let’s make 2024 a year of remarkable achievements in sustainability!

Businesses have shown to double revenue growth when using circular economy practices. Join our webinar to hear how SMEs became more profitable and environmentally impactful. Fetola’s CEO Catherine Wijnberg will lead the discussion alongside guest speakers Isabel du Toit, Fetola’s Sustainability Industries Lead and award-winning entrepreneur Natasha Pearce, founder of Vivacious Eco Vixon. Webinar: Successful Social Impact Investing Into Circular Economy Businesses Date: Wed 03 April 2024 Time: 13:00 – 14:30 SAST Unlock: 🌍 Valuable Data-driven insights to shape your social impact investment goals 🍃 Solutions for scaling to a more sustainable and globally competitive economy ♻ The pathway for South Africa’s small business sector to transition to the circular economy Become a catalyst for change in South Africa's business landscape! Secure your spot now. https://zurl.co/0OjW #FetolaFutureThinkers #TheFutureIsCircular #CircularEconomy #SocialImpactInvesting #BuildingBusinessesThatLast

📢 NEW BLOG & SESSIONS SNEAK PEEK 🌍 The intersections between the environment and human rights 🌱 As businesses continue to operate in an increasingly interconnected way across environmental, social and governance (ESG) issues, we are constantly reminded of the dangers of acting in silos and addressing issues without considering the impacts and interrelations of other spheres of sustainability. Our latest blog discusses key opportunities to address their environmental impacts in a way that respects human rights and avoids causing or contributing to adverse human rights activities. Featured speakers for these sessions at our upcoming conference UNiting Business LIVE Australia will include: ▪ Adam Davids, Managing Partner, First Nations Equity Partners ▪ Alexandra Banks, Partner, EY Australia ▪ Dr Terri Janke, Owner, Terri Janke and Company ▪ Estelle Parker, Co-Chief Executive Officer, Responsible Investment Association Australasia (RIAA) ▪ Prof. Deen Sanders OAM, Lead Partner, Deloitte: Integrity ➡️ Read the blog: https://lnkd.in/gPqisWkB #UnitingBusiness #UNGCNAevents #OneGlobalCompact #AusBiz #LeadLearnConnect #BizHumanRights --- UNiting Business LIVE Australia is the defining sustainability event of the year, giving leaders the opportunity to shape the future of business in Australia. DATE: 30-31 October 2024 VENUE: Doltone House, Jones Bay Wharf, Sydney PARTNERS: Intrepid Travel, Coles Group, NAB, Talent Nation, Third Hemisphere, Better Sydney, 15 Times Better, Edge Impact, Circular Design Thinking, greenHorizon ✉️ Partnership enquiries: partnerships@unglobalcompact.org.au

🌐 Navigating Sustainability: How the UN 2030 Agenda Impacts Small Businesses in Australia🌏 Greetings LinkedIn community! 👋 Today, let's explore how the UN's 2030 Agenda and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) influence small businesses down under. 📈 Regulatory Ripples: Small businesses in Australia should keep an eye on evolving local regulations aligning with the global sustainability agenda. Adapting to these changes may reshape operational practices and reporting standards. 💡 Market Movers: As consumer preferences shift toward sustainability, Aussie small businesses can seize opportunities by aligning with SDGs. Meeting the demands of conscious consumers could be a game-changer in today's dynamic market. 💰 Funding Frontiers: Investors and financial institutions increasingly value businesses committed to ESG factors. Small enterprises embracing sustainable practices might find it easier to attract funding and investments. 🔄 Supply Chain Signals: Part of larger supply chains? Expect sustainability criteria to become integral. Small businesses need to align with the sustainable standards set by their larger partners to maintain strong supply chain connections. 🚀 Innovate to Elevate: Sustainability often sparks innovation and boosts operational efficiency. Small businesses investing in eco-friendly practices might experience cost savings and stand out in the competitive landscape. 🤝 Community Connect: Local businesses are the heartbeat of communities. Aligning with SDGs can enhance your reputation, fostering positive relationships and loyalty within your local sphere. 🌏 Global Trade Gateways: International trade dynamics are evolving, and small businesses aligned with sustainability goals might find smoother entry into global markets, where ethical practices are gaining prominence. 👩💼 Talent Ties: Attracting skilled talent is crucial. Small businesses with a commitment to sustainability are likely to resonate with the younger workforce prioritizing values in their career choices. While challenges may arise, the proactive integration of sustainable practices positions small businesses for long-term success. Let's keep the conversation going! 🌿 #Sustainability #SmallBusinesses #SDGs #AustraliaBusiness #LinkedInCommunity