Capitalism for Good featuring Prof Joe Steensma | Washington University St Louis

Capitalism for Good

In partnership with Hatch: Taronga Accelerator Program and Macquarie University Incubator, we are excited to bring you this unique perspective from visiting mentor Professor Joe Steensma from Washington University, St Louis Missouri, on how entrepreneurs should think about capitalism as a means to create positive global impact. Historically, profit has been a key driver of human behaviour. In this talk Joe unpacks how to take advantage of the profit-seeking motive of capitalism while also learning from mistakes and unintended consequences capitalism has caused throughout history. Joe will explain how we can apply these learnings toward profit-seeking solutions for the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals which are global challenges that call us to work together with boldness and urgency. Joe will explore how skills from entrepreneurship and venture creation can be used to improve water, climate, education and gender equality globally.

Following the talk we will unpack the theme further with a panel discussion featuring:

• Dr Alexandra Carthey, Senior Lecturer in Environmental Management, School of Natural Sciences at Macquarie University and founder of ReHabitat which create ‘habitat pods’ – biodegradable shelters that protect ground-dwelling wildlife from predators after bushfires. ReHabitat was named the winner of Taronga Conservation Society Australia’s HATCH Accelerator Program HATCH 2023, taking home a $55,000 grant.
• Eric Wedepohl, Director of Apropela, supporting ambitious women entrepreneurs by opening up influential business networks AND Director and Principal at Ascendant, a boutique advisory firm that supports the growth of start-ups and SMEs. Before launching Ascendent, Eric co-founded and lead Geoforce, a subsurface mapping company in mining, infrastructure, and the environment sectors. This venture culminated in a successful merger with Groundprobe, followed by Groundprobe's sale to Crescent Capital. Now eric pays it back by business advisory and coaching via Ascendent; and volunteering his time to support "for purpose" businesses and accelerators.
• Professor Joe Steensma

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Schedule

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About Prof Joe Steensma

Dr. Joseph Steensma is a distinguished entrepreneur, educator, and scientist with a background in biology and public health. His academic journey began with a Bachelor of Science in Biology, followed by a Master of Public Health specializing in biostatistics and environmental health, and culminating in a Doctorate in Organizational Theory. Dr. Steensma's extensive experience as a health physicist at the United States Department of Energy and an Environmental Health Officer in the United States Army gave him a foundation rooted in scientific principles and leadership. This foundation has been pivotal in his successful transition to the business world, where he has founded and led multiple companies, including ISG, Inc., Quantus Analytical, and Winergy Services, LLC.

Dr. Steensma’s entrepreneurial journey is marked by his ability to translate scientific knowledge into successful business ventures. His firms have not only thrived commercially but also contributed significantly to environmental sustainability and public health. His unique blend of scientific expertise and business acumen has positioned him as a leading mentor and advisor, guiding hundreds of companies through various stages of development. As a professor at esteemed institutions such as Washington University in St. Louis and the Royal Academy of Engineering, Dr. Steensma continues to inspire and educate the next generation of innovators, emphasizing the critical role of science in driving business success and sustainable solutions.

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