Members Day Conference 2011

Steve Beck gave an overview of the changing attitudes towards the fight against poverty, the role of the private for-profit sector in development and the growth of the Social Venture Capital sector. He also gave 3 examples of successful investments made into businesses that are directly impacting poverty.

TBN trustee and chairman Stuart McGreevy gave an overview of where TBN has come from and where it is going, redefining it’s ’DNA’ with two strands: the Investment strand and the Technical Assistance strand.

Norman talked about the funding gap in emerging Europe and the potential poverty trap many entrepreneurs can find themselves in. Angello Capital Partners target SMEs and is already investing in businesses in Moldova.

Luca also came from a financial background and is now involved in investing in entrepreneurs and businesses in Eastern Europe through Angello.

Martin Zuch came from a financial background and now runs Beesweet, a company producing and selling honey and it’s by-products in Zambia. He talked us through the opportunities, challenges and lessons learned from his experiences there.

Myriam spoke about Hagar vietnam, an amazing project providing care, education, counselling and career prospects to trafficked and abused women in Vietnam.

Anne Horrobin gave a case study of Just Cards, a company producing greetings cards making an amazing impact in Africa

Chris Grace talked about the successful Food Development Company generating jobs and wealth in Transylvania with its exports of elder flower juice, jams, honey and cordials.

Matthijs is an ex-grant office for the very grant scheme his company now helps companies and social enterprises to apply for. He gave a great overview of what sorts of projects can apply, what is on offer, and how his company, Cornu International, could help guide you through the application process.

TBN trustees Ralph Catto and Andrew Carruthers pitch an idea for a new direction for TBN in which it plays a bigger role in match-making between entrepreneurs and opportunities and investors, funds, family offices and institutions.

Jerry gave an overview of the sorts of activities TBN members with specialist and business skills and experience can get involved with.