On Thursday 20 November, Coutts & Co hosted a Social Entrepreneurship event at 440 Strand in order to examine the growing importance of social enterprise in society today.

The event also provided 150 highly successful business entrepreneurs with the opportunity to meet innovative social entrepreneurs who put social and environmental aims at the centre of their business models.

After welcome drinks, several illustrious guests took to the speakers’ platform to offer their insights on, and share their experiences of, social enterprise.

Kevin Brennan , Minister for the Third Sector, outlined the Government’s commitment to social enterprise, and his belief that, through it, we can find solutions to some of the country’s most pressing issues. He also welcomed Coutts' announcement of four new scholarships which will give social entrepreneurs the opportunity to attend Cranfield University’s Business Growth and Development Programme. 

Baroness Kingsmill spoke of her passion for social enterprise and her view that it combines a commitment to social justice with the dynamism of business. And Matt Kingdon , chairman of ?Whatif!, The Innovation Company, spoke of the positive impact that working on social innovation projects has had on both himself and his employees.

Penny Newman , the recently appointed CEO of Fifteen Foundation, talked about the journey she went through in establishing Café Direct, the Fairtrade coffee, tea and cocoa company, her aims now in her new role and the importance of strong partnerships in social enterprise.

And Rodney Schwartz , CEO of Catalyst Fund Management, spoke of social enterprise’s attractiveness as an investment proposition and outlined his thoughts on the future of the industry as a whole.

Sarah Deaves , chief executive of Coutts UK, spoke of the bank’s commitment to fully understanding and getting involved with social enterprise, bringing to bear Coutts’ expanding entrepreneur client base and its growing expertise in the world of philanthropy.

Finally, Oli Barrett , of the Make Your Mark with a Tenner campaign, announced the launch of a new campaign in 2009 with a target of involving 20,000 young people, who will each be given £10 and asked to make money and a social impact.

Guests then had the opportunity to mingle and discuss ideas over drink and canapés.

The event forms part of Coutts’ ongoing commitment to provide platforms for entrepreneurs to network with like-minded individuals and discuss their own business ventures and the challenges and achievements associated with them.