Brisbane Social Enterprise & Philanthropy Tour
Description
Join Impact Boom and the Business for Good Network for an immersive field trip across Brisbane’s Southside, exploring the powerful intersection of philanthropy, social enterprise, and systemic change.
As a featured field trip for the Philanthropy Australia Conference, this tour offers a rare "behind-the-scenes" look at some of Queensland’s most successful social enterprises. Moving beyond the boardroom, we will dive into the lived reality of impact-led business, exploring how strategic philanthropic investment has acted as a catalyst for growth, innovation, and community resilience.
Please note, you don't need a full conference ticket in order to attend this Tour.
Co-hosted by Tom Allen (Impact Boom), Allan English AM and Javier Casanova (BFGN), this day-long journey is designed for philanthropists, impact investors, and ecosystem leaders who want to visit an array of social enterprises and learn from blended capital in action.
The Itinerary
Our day begins in the CBD at Marhaba Cafe for registration and a welcome coffee. This social enterprise is part of the Nundah Community Enterprises Cooperative (NCEC) and provides a warm introduction to the day’s theme: which explores creating belonging through inclusive employment and circular economy models for systemic change.
We’ll then board our private charter and Erica Eurell of Dreamtime Artistry will welcome us as we enter into Logan. Throughout the day, we'll visit:
Containers For Change, Substation33 & Powerwells: Meet founder Tony Sharp and the team to explore a world-class example of the circular economy. Powerwells Co-founder Brad Clair, will share more about their journey. We’ll see how electronic waste is transformed into life-changing technology, providing meaningful employment and training for those facing barriers to work.
Lovewell Cafe (Lunch & Panel): Perched with a view, we’ll enjoy a delicious lunch accompanied by a high-level panel featuring Allan English AM (English Family Foundation) and Annie Stonehouse. We will discuss the strategic role of philanthropy in helping enterprises like Lovewell provide pathways for women to rebuild their lives.
The Salvation Army’s Textile Recovery Facility: We’ll gain insights from Meriel Chamberlin on the foundations of Australia's recently launched textiles circular economy hub. This stop highlights the challenges and opportunities of scaling environmental impact in the retail and waste sectors, whilst reflecting on the funding journey to get there.
Happy Paws Happy Hearts: Our final stop introduces us to Zoe Black and her team. We’ll learn how they create social connection through the magic of the animal-human bond, providing a unique model for disability and mental health support.
Why Attend?
Throughout the day, you will engage in candid conversations about the "on-the-ground" realities of social procurement, impact measurement, and some of the pivotal moments where philanthropic support changed the trajectory of these organisations.
You will return to the CBD with more than just new contacts; you will leave with a deeper understanding of how your capital and influence can be leveraged to support the next generation of "business for good."
Tour Details
When: Friday, September 11 | 8:40 am – 4:15 pm
Departure/Return: Brisbane CBD (Specific location provided upon registration)
Inclusions: Full bus transport, morning tea at Marhaba Cafe, and a curated lunch at Lovewell Cafe.
Investment: $149+GST
Tickets are limited to ensure an intimate environment for deep learning and networking. Secure your place to explore the future of the Brisbane impact ecosystem.
This tour is delivered by Impact Boom in partnership with the Business for Good Network.
Schedule
8:40am | Meet at Marhaba Cafe on Adelaide St (located under City Hall). |
9:15am sharp. | Bus departs. |
9:45am - 10:00am | Visit Containers For Change. |
10:00-10:15am | Bus networking. |
10:15-11:15am | Visit Substation33, hear from Tony Sharp and Brad Clair of Powerwells. |
11:15-11:45am | Bus networking. |
11:45-1:00pm | Lunch at Lovewell Cafe and panel including Allan English AM, Annie Stonehouse and soon-to-be-announced speakers. |
1:00-1:35pm | Bus networking. |
1:35-2:30pm | Visit the Salvo's Textile Recovery Facility. |
2:30-2:40pm | Bus networking |
2:40-3:30pm | Drop in to Happy Paws Happy Hearts and hear from Founder `Zoe Black. |
3:30-4:15pm | Bus networking and return to CBD. |
Please ensure you arrive no later than 8:40am on the day.

Please note that photography/videography will be taken at this event. By attending this tour, you consent to your photograph/video potentially being used for promotional purposes in the future. Please let us know if you would not like your photo/video taken.
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