Social and Creative Venture Series

This workshop will explore what an inclusive economy could look and feel like for Loughborough, Charnwood and the wider region. Participants will engage in discussions and activities focused on creating systems that ensure equal opportunities for all individuals, regardless of background, economic status, gender, race, or abilities. This exploration will touch upon equitable access to education, employment, and financial resources; inclusive participation in economic activities; fair distribution of economic growth benefits; and sustainable practices for long-term economic and environmental health. The workshop will discuss practical steps to create a system that reduces poverty and inequality while fostering social cohesion.

What you will gain

• A deeper understanding of the principles of an inclusive economy
• Strategies for fostering equitable economic participation and reducing inequalities
• Tools and ideas to create more inclusive economic systems locally

About our speakers

Keith Jeffrey is an award-winning social entrepreneur with extensive experience in establishing and managing cultural and social ventures across the UK. He has led successful initiatives such as the founding of QUAD and Coventry University Social Enterprise and has a proven track record of driving impact-driven enterprise and innovation.

Paul Squires has a strong background in community and enterprise development, with expertise in business support, growth, and social innovation. He has worked with start-ups, social ventures, and charities across the UK, bringing strategic insight and coaching to empower social entrepreneurs at every stage.

Create Growth Programme, delivered through the East Midlands Creative Consortium (EMC²) and funded by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport, aims to support regional creative businesses to start, grow and scale. Supported by EMC² LUinc., Loughborough University's Incubator, is supporting social and creative ventures through an initiative operating from our dual-space located in Loughborough town centre at the Careers & Enterprise Hub. The programme includes tailored coaching sessions and a series of monthly events running through to the end of March 2025, designed to empower and accelerate the growth of ventures creating and impact and making a difference.