Community businesses took the time for networking and collaboration at the National Community Business Conference 2024.
On Wednesday, 23 October, over 150 delegates and community businesses from across the UK gathered at the Coin Street Neighbourhood Centre, a community-owned conference venue on London’s South Bank. Sponsored by Webmart, the event was a vibrant day of networking, idea-sharing, and collaboration. Attendees included representatives from community-owned businesses, partners, and expert speakers.
Alison Jeffers, a Plunkett trustee and member of Preston Village Community Shop and Café, remarked, “I was amazed by the energy and optimism of the event. It was an important day full of communication and collaboration, which has given me renewed confidence.”
The design and content of this year’s conference focused on the daily issues and challenges faced by our members, while also exploring opportunities for business growth and, most importantly, enhancing the impact of their businesses on individuals, communities, the economy, and the environment.
Upon arrival at the venue, there was a warm welcome from Plunkett staff and representatives from 15 exhibitors, all Plunkett recommended suppliers with extensive experience in working with community businesses, who shared their knowledge and services.
In the opening session, chaired by Lucy Knill, Managing Director of Anthropy, James Alcock (Plunkett Chief Executive), Chris Cowcher (Head of Policy) and Harriet English (Head of Engagement) shared exciting insights into our strategic ambitions and how our services are evolving to meet the current demands and expectations of rural community businesses.
The session highlighted our core work and commitment to our members, including:
The panel sessions throughout the day provided delegates with in-depth information presented by expert speakers and representatives from community-owned businesses. One session, sponsored by Suma Wholefoods, discussed how community businesses can clean up their supply chains through local and ethical sourcing. In the “Where are you on the road to net-zero” session, sponsored by Utility Aid, the panel encouraged community businesses to work together to become beacons of sustainability and role models for society, promoting services that help create a new norm.
Experts advised community businesses on financing for growth and impact during a session sponsored by Charity Bank, highlighting various forms of social investment, from loan finance to crowdfunding and community shares, to help achieve their goals. Additionally, a panel sponsored by Anthony Collins Solicitors discussed how community businesses can effectively manage their operations by addressing key legal and compliance issues.
A poignant theme discussed in the ‘Creating Impact through Volunteering, Training, and Employment’ session was “who’s not here,” introduced by Veda Harrison FRSA, Director of the Esmee Fairbairn Foundation. Panellists explored how creating inclusive opportunities can generate broader social and economic impacts. Matt Hyde OBE, Chief Executive of Lloyds Bank Foundation said: “It was a fascinating exploration of how community businesses are making the biggest social impact – not just in terms of trade, but also in health, wellbeing, reducing loneliness, and providing meaning and purpose.”
The session ‘Creative Storytelling – How to Reach More People in Your Community and Beyond’ highlighted the importance of spreading the word about your community business and its impact. James Gadsby-Peet from The Star of Greenwich Community Pub emphasised that “telling your story” is crucial for the continued success of a community business.
Throughout the day, Plunkett advisers and external speakers delivered a series of workshops on key topics such as ‘Investing in People’, ‘Committee Relationship Management’, ‘Continuity Planning’, and ‘Community Engagement’. For instance, the community engagement workshop highlighted the importance of making engagement enjoyable and viewing the community not just as customers, but as partners. This approach ensures that decisions are made effectively to best serve the community.
The workshops were well-received, with delegates providing positive feedback. One attendee noted, “I really enjoyed the theme of community engagement coming through several of the sessions, which gave a good all-round picture of what can be done and achieved.”
Nick Comley leading the workshop: ‘How does your community business make a real difference?’
James Alcock, Chief Executive of Plunkett UK, said
At Plunkett UK, we are so proud of this growing movement that we represent – and I would like to thank all of the speakers, workshop facilitators, sponsors and recommended suppliers. I am particularly grateful to Webmart for their generous support in hosting the conference and for their ongoing partnership with us.
Tom Maskill, Chief Client Officer for Webmart, said:
We are proud to have partnered with Plunkett UK in hosting the conference. Charitable giving is one of Webmart’s cornerstone motivations, and our values of supporting local communities very much align with those of Plunkett’s.
After a jam-packed day of networking and learning, our delegates gathered for an evening of celebration at our Rural Community Business Awards, sponsored by Bestway Wholesale, where we were inspired by the outstanding achievements of community businesses and the dedicated champions involved.
A selection of photographs of the day
Photos: Plunkett UK/Tony Marsh
We want to support you!
Plunkett UK answers enquiries every day from people across the country who are exploring the idea of setting up a community business, as well as existing businesses that require additional support.
We provide specialist business advice, training, webinars and toolkits.
Become a member today!
If you share or vision for a vibrant rural economy with community business at heart, why not join Plunkett as a member?
