A new online business hub has launched to help keep money generated in Greater Manchester within the region to prompt positive change for all.
Our Business GM is designed to empower the social economy across Greater Manchester.
It seeks to achieve this through creating business growth, training, support and networking amongst like-minded organisations, while promoting their products and services to enhance community wealth building.
This successful business model found its roots in Manchester almost 200 years ago when the Rochdale Pioneers formed the co-operative movement, and people are already benefiting from being a part of this new initiative.
Over the coming weeks, the organisation will showcase some of the businesses in the Greater Manchester region that are working for the greater good of the community.
Making positive change
One of the businesses operating in the social sector and striving to make a positive change in areas of concern is Moss Side Millennium Powerhouse (MSMP) - an organisation currently tackling the pressing issues around the cost of living crisis.
MSMP's food and clothing banks have become a staple since the pandemic, and its focus moving forward is on youth and community enterprise.
It has identified the need for local people to be informed about how they can become self-employed and join or set up co-ops, CICs, and social enterprises.
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It advocates for community wealth building by encouraging funders to consider enterprise alongside employment opportunities for local people, recognising their business talent and potential.
MSMP has collaborated with Our Business GM to exhibit at different events, resulting in referrals to business support for a newly published author, entrepreneurs engaged in early help, and parents tackling climate justice.
Lisa Samuels, MSMP CEO, said: "Our Business GM is so valuable to our community, like Kenny’s Global Links which aims to corner the alterations and sustainable fashion market while helping local women to generate income from the skills they learn.”
Janique Berryman, Our Business GM community and digital co-ordinator, said: "I’m proud that Our Business GM opens doors to business support for underserved communities, like mine in Moss Side."
Let Our Business be your business
If you are a CIC, co-op, social enterprise or mutual operating in the Greater Manchester city region, or you've been inspired to set up a community interest business, become a part of the Our Business GM community.
You can connect with others and access helpful resources, such as funding opportunities, including grants, loans and social investment; training and events to nurture your knowledge and development; and specialist support, such as income generation and fundraising, business coaching and more.