The Business Lincolnshire Good Business Conference: Inspiring and Supporting Social Enterprise in Greater Lincolnshire

Discover how business can be a force for good.

Lincoln Bishop University is delighted to host Business Lincolnshire's first conference dedicated entirely to Social Enterprise, delivered through the Business Lincolnshire Social Economy Academy Programme.

Whether you are already running a social enterprise, considering a more purpose-driven business model, or simply interested in creating positive social impact through business, this conference offers a unique opportunity to learn from experienced practitioners, connect with like-minded professionals, and explore the growing social economy sector.

What to Expect

The conference will bring together social entrepreneurs, business leaders, support organisations and aspiring changemakers from across Greater Lincolnshire.

During the morning session, you'll hear from inspirational speakers who will share their expertise, experiences, challenges, successes and practical insights related to operating socially focused organisations and alternative business models.

In the afternoon, delegates will have the opportunity to participate in interactive themed table discussions, facilitated by sector experts, providing space to explore key topics in greater depth, share ideas and make valuable new connections.

There will also be plenty of opportunities for networking throughout the day.

Confirmed Speakers

Emma Conway, CEO, NW Counselling Hub CIC

Emma Conway has served as CEO of NW Counselling Hub since January 2025, having joined the organisation in February 2023 as Operations Manager. Following progression to Operations Director, Emma stepped into the CEO role and now leads the organisation through a period of continued growth, development and innovation.

Emma will provide an honest and transparent account of life as the CEO of a Community Interest Company, discussing both the opportunities and challenges of leading a social enterprise. Her session will explore the strengths and successes of operating a CIC within a local community, alongside the realities of managing organisational growth, governance and board-level responsibilities.

Cat Chrimes, Programme Manager at the Key Fund

Cat has worked in the social investment sector for over a decade, working across the UK with lots of different types of social enterprises. She has also been one of the founding directors of the social enterprises Bramley Baths and Community Ltd and West Leeds Community Media, as well as Friends of Armley and Gotts Park. Cat has sat on the board of several charities and social enterprises and is currently the director of Greater Manchester Community Led Homes and sits on the Social Enterprise Advisory Group for Greater Manchester and the Social Value Steering Committee in Greater Manchester.

Cat will deliver a presentation on the range of funding and investment options available to social enterprises, from start-up grants and crowdfunding to social finance and growth investment. Attendees will gain practical insights into what investors look for, how different finance models can support sustainable growth, and the steps social enterprises can take to strengthen their financial resilience while increasing their social impact.

Professor Firoz Bhaiyat, Dean of the Business School at Lincoln Bishop University

Firoz will be bringing experience from both higher education leadership and the banking sector. His work focuses on leadership, entrepreneurship and helping organisations create sustainable value for their communities.

In his talk, "Profit With Purpose: Why 'Good Business' Needs All Three Bottom Lines," Firoz will explore how people, planet and profit work together to create strong, resilient organisations. Drawing on examples from Lincolnshire's social economy, he will discuss why financial sustainability is essential for achieving long-term social and environmental impact.

Interactive Discussion Topics

Choose from a range of expert-led table discussions, including:

Using Social Finance to Grow Your Social Enterprise

Accessing Business Support in Greater Lincolnshire

"Are You Thinking About Your Online Security?" – Keeping Your Social Business Safe

Researching Impact and Sharing Good Practice

Who Should Attend?

This event is suitable for:

Social enterprises and Community Interest Companies (CICs)

Co-operatives and community organisations

Purpose-led businesses

Entrepreneurs and start-ups

Anyone interested in creating positive social impact through business.

Join us for an inspiring and practical day of learning, discussion and networking as we explore how good business can create lasting economic, social and environmental value.

This event is part of the Greater Lincolnshire Social Economy Academy programme which is funded by the UK Government and is supported by Lincolnshire County Council and Business Lincolnshire. It is delivered locally by Lincoln Bishop University.

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Description supplied by the event organiser.