Latvia’s Innovative Approach to Economic Growth

On the world map, Latvia is located on the east coast of the Baltic Sea and has almost 2 million inhabitants. This is about half the size of Melbourne in Australia! It is nestled in the Baltic states between Estonia and Lithuania and they all have one thing in common. Their populations have all been declining … More Latvia’s Innovative Approach to Economic Growth

Why Estonia is the Next Global Social Enterprise Hub

Estonia is a small nation with a big impact. For a population of 1.3 million, they are the world’s only digital society, with 99% of Government services available online. This has led to a nation where technology is second nature. According to the e-Estonia website ‘There are 413 startups in Estonia. The number might seem … More Why Estonia is the Next Global Social Enterprise Hub

SynchroniCity: The EU’s Plan to Build the Ultimate Smart City Network

Data today can be used to improve as well as hinder society. With large companies dominating data from our devices, it is important we create new networks that add value to society. Instead, they can help generate more equitable outcomes for people, place and the planet. There are some exciting emerging models of using data … More SynchroniCity: The EU’s Plan to Build the Ultimate Smart City Network

How Innovative Partnerships Can Transform Cities

I had heard about Finland’s progressive culture and positive action on climate change. However, it wasn’t until I was on the ground and hearing from locals about clean tech, partnerships and new business models that I got a true sense of it. When I met with Tiina Kähö, Executive Director of Helsinki Metropolitan Smart and … More How Innovative Partnerships Can Transform Cities

Sustainable Talent: How a Non-Profit Bridges The Gap For Businesses and Students

Breaking into the workforce can be a challenge for many recent graduates around the world. It can be even harder for those who want to bring their purpose and passion into the workforce. This was the problem for about 12 founders including Markus and Simon (who are still working at Sustainergies) about 10 years ago … More Sustainable Talent: How a Non-Profit Bridges The Gap For Businesses and Students

Can Human Centred Design Change the World?

Written by Rob Lee, Experience Design Leader in Melbourne, Australia. Human Centred Design has the potential to change the world, but it needs to change.  How so? IDEO has most popularly used principles and tools of HCD to transform communities in developing countries. The business world has also adopted many aspects of this into their … More Can Human Centred Design Change the World?

What is Shared Value and Why Does it Matter?

The range of social and environmental issues continue to evolve which will not just impact our lives, but also the course of business growth. Government and charities have long been seen as the entities who were best placed to solve social and environmental issues. However, the pace of this change means that Government and charities … More What is Shared Value and Why Does it Matter?

Social Innovation Perspectives in Japan: Robin Lewis [Interview]

Researching about sustainability, startups and social innovation for my global trip would often include endless keyword searches leading to infinite pages and bizarre paths. Luckily for me, Japan was easy! I typed in ‘social innovation Japan’ and front and centre was Robin Lewis with his latest venture, Social Innovation Japan. I was fortunate enough to … More Social Innovation Perspectives in Japan: Robin Lewis [Interview]