FaithAction co-hosts event on faith-based social enterprise

Yesterday FaithAction held an event with the Centre for Innovation, Imagination and Inspiration (i3Centre) at the University of Greenwich on ‘Starting and Sustaining a Faith-based Social Enterprise.’

Over 50 people from faith-based organisations came together to learn about turning their ideas in to reality, receiving advice on funding, governance and building partnerships.

Charles Oham, Social Enterprise Coordiantor and Senior Lecturer on Social Enterpise at the i3centre said, “Faith-based social entrepreneurship is a salient area in our economy and some of us are leading and encouraging the academic community and key stakeholders to invest in this sub-sector.”

The day kicked off with an inspirational speech from Lord Andrew Mawson, President of the internationally renowned Bromley By Bow Centre.  He told of his experience in developing an integrated working model with local residents and faith groups, which includes health, education, housing, business and enterprise.  His advice included, “Become known for what you do, not what you say… To change the big picture, focus on the detail.”

Other speakers included Dr Husna Ahmad, Charles Oham and Scott Gamble who described how they started sustainable faith-based enterprises, in the UK and internationally, and the lessons they learnt.

FaithAction team members, Jessica McFarling and Martin Smith, held a workshop on funding tips and advice, based on their experience from the Together in Service and Creative English grant programmes.

Daniel Singleton, National Executive Director of FaithAction said, “it is important that faith groups diversify their approach to funding to continue their vital work in communities.  We are pleased to work with the i3Centre on this timely initiative.”