Developing A Social Enterprise Or Social Change Project

This is a 33 minute Interview with the two founders of social enterprise and womenswear brand Birdsong. When Sophie Slater co-founded Birdsong, she came from a background of activism, and having worked on the shop floor of American Apparel, she realised first-hand what she didn’t want the brands she shopped from to look like.

What motivates you to challenge the status quo? What upsets you about the industry enough to launch your own business? Is a social enterprise business model the way to go to realise your dreams, by making profit to sustain your business and support marginalised communities? Step in to this interview to get inspired on the practical action required.

Thumbnail image: Liz, "granny" knitter

Changing Lives in Cheshire has saved 1,000 tons of waste from heading to landfill through its social enterprise mission that combines a recycling solution with a community and outreach mission. 

With experience growing social enterprises to over £2 million in revenue, founder Gary Cliffe talks about his current projects, what drives his passion for social enterprise, solving furniture poverty, why he has so far rejected opportunities to scale, and much more. 

The complexities of the knitwear industry present several challenges for those entering the market, particularly when aiming for sustainable practices. We had the pleasure of speaking with one of our members, Rachel Carvell-Spedding, who launched her knitwear label in January this year and learnt about how her new business is navigating this tricky industry.

Navygrey is a socially-conscious knitwear label, newly launched by Sustainable Fashion Collective member Rachel Carvell-Spedding. The brand’s concept is focused on "the art of a really great jumper" inspired by one Rachel’s mother bought 20 years ago. Navygrey’s knitwear is formulated on timeless design - there are just three classic styles and four colours to choose from, epitomising the notion that less is more. We hear about how Rachel stays true to her sustainable design and traceable supply chain ethos in the initial stages of establishing her exciting new venture.

Follow Navygrey on Instagram.

Are you a social entrepreneur delivering incredible social or environmental impact but struggling to get your voice heard, fretting over what to measure and not quite sure how to communicate your story to the world? Your social impact is too significant to go unnoticed. Kat Luckock, the founder of Share Impact, shares her knowledge of social enterprises and why it's so important not just to measure your impact too.

I was so excited when Lily, one half of Y.O.U Underwear came to talk at our monthly networking event. I wanted to invite a brand on the brink of launching, to hear about the setting up process and their decision to launch as a social enterprise. Some sound words of wisdom and an honest, open look at what it takes to be a startup. Enjoy!

We couldn't be more thrilled that the brilliant Joanna Hamer, co-founder and co-director of Juta Shoes joined us for our London Networking Event.

Juta Shoes is a social enterprise based in East London that supports, trains and employs women who face barriers to work, to make their bespoke reclaimed leather espadrilles and teach their sustainable crafts workshops. You may remember Juta Shoes as we mentioned them in our Masterclass Branding a Sustainable Business, as an exemplary ethical business with a social mission. Juta shoes are also a brilliant example of how manufacturing on a smaller scale can have a huge impact. Joanna was a 2016 Year Here fellow, and I'm delighted to share some of her invaluable insight and gems of advice.