Current economic development strategies often struggle to grasp the intrinsic value of interconnected, relational and intricate systems, like our very own communities. Although there is growing acknowledgment of the need for more systemic approaches at the local level to drive innovation and resilience, endeavours still lack the crowd-based investment infrastructure and regulations to unleash local action and bring about regenerative transformation from the ground up.

To ensure a thriving future for both people and the planet, it is essential for capital to flow in service to our city. A new financial paradigm begins to emerge when we shift the power dynamics, double down on relationships, and acknowledge the potential of local resource flows. It is crucial, now more than ever, to adopt innovative and place-based approaches that foster stronger and more resilient communities. Meeting this challenge lies in promoting local in a global playing field.

How can we navigate the current system to channel funds into local investments with local impact? What would a truly regenerative future look like for Melbourne? And how might we catalyse essential transformations to live sustainably within planetary boundaries?

Join us for a conversation with renowned economist, author, visionary and architect of community economics, Michael Shuman, and CEO of Regen Melbourne, Kaj Lofgren.

About Michael Shuman:
Michael Shuman is an economist, attorney, author, and entrepreneur, and a leading visionary on community economics. He is the Director of Local Economy Programs for Neighborhood Associates Corporation, and an Adjunct Professor at Bard Business School in New York City. He has performed economic-development analyses for states, local governments, and businesses around North America, and is credited with being one of the architects of the 2012 JOBS Act and dozens of state laws overhauling securities regulation of crowdfunding. Michael will explore the idea of investing locally to create resilient and thriving neighborhoods.

About our host, Kaj Lofgren:
Kaj (pronounced Kai) is the CEO of Regen Melbourne, a platform for ambitious collaboration, in service of Melbourne. Powered by an alliance of more than 160 organisations, Regen Melbourne is the host of a portfolio of bold projects that are moving Melbourne towards a regenerative future. Kaj is also the Entrepreneur in Residence at Small Giants Academy where he collaborates on the Academy’s education and storytelling initiatives, including the Impact Safari program and the Mastery of Business and Empathy. A Civil Engineer by training, Kaj holds a Masters of Economic History from Lund University and has previously worked in social enterprise, impact investment and community development with Engineers Without Borders.

About Regen Melbourne:
Regen Melbourne is a platform for ambitious collaboration in service of our city. We are the host of bold projects and deeply impactful research for a regenerative Melbourne. Powered by an alliance of more than 160 organisations, our vision is for a thriving city within planetary boundaries.

About Small Giants Academy:
Our vision at Small Giants Academy is for a just and inclusive transition to a global economy that supports human flourishing while living in harmony with the natural world. Through articles, podcasts, conversations and masterclasses that illuminate the work of global thought leaders, Small Giants Academy is leading its communities towards a hopeful future, the Next Economy.