Delivering social mission in challenging times

Social purpose organisations (SPOs) are operating in an increasingly competitive environment that has challenged them to revisit their business models. Many SPOs that were once largely reliant on philanthropic funding, and more recently dependent on government funding streams, are having to consider returning to their roots and/or the pursuit of more commercial means of ensuring sustainability.

Following this global trend, the main source of NFP income in Australia has shifted from philanthropic gifts to government grants and contracts and sale of goods and services. As per an ACNC report indicates, in 2023 Queensland charities earned $7.8 billion compared to $1.6 billion donations and bequests.

The increased search for income which is essentially needed to support the social purpose has created internal tensions and competition for funds. Many SPOs now require dealing with multiple sets of stakeholders and their competing demands i.e. donors; government agencies that support the delivery of social value to the beneficiaries; and customers that support commercial income generating activities.

We invite you to attend the UQ Alliance for Social Impact Research Hub discussion forum on Tuesday 25 February at UQ Brisbane City. Hear from our panel members as they discuss key issues SPOs face, including governance and balancing ‘mission’ and ‘money’ issues, managing finances and people, and leveraging impact.

Panel speakers

David Swain
Chief Executive Officer, Endeavour Foundation

David Swain has a track record of growing and leading social purpose organisations. He is the CEO of Endeavour Foundation, a diverse human service organisation with a strong focus on advocacy, independence, and employment. He is also a director of Guide Dogs Queensland and has served on a number of community organisation boards.

David holds qualifications in business, health science, and education, is a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors and is an alumnus of the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania. His roles have spanned health and social services, military and regulatory environments, combined with over a decade in governance and executive leadership positions.

Adele Laughton
Chief Executive Officer, Queensland Social Enterprise Council (QSEC)

Adele has a demonstrated history of serving the Social Enterprise, Not-for-profit and Agriculture sectors. In her current role as CEO of QSEC, she represents, supports and advocates for the interests of social enterprises and social entrepreneurs to drive high social, cultural and environmental impact. In parallel, as Director of Government Relations at Social Enterprise Australia, she advocates for policy that benefits both communities and the economy while building strong connections between the social sector and government. She is also a member of the Q2032 Industry Advisory Group for the Olympics and Paralympic Games, Vice Chair of charity Ability Agriculture, and a foundation member of the Indigenous Engagement Working Group for the National Farmers’ Federations (NFF).

Dave Whimpey
Chief Executive Officer, Surf Life Saving Queensland

Dave Whimpey is a highly experienced and respected business leader, currently serving as the CEO of Surf Life Saving Queensland (SLSQ), the peak body for surf lifesaving in Queensland, Australia. As the CEO of SLSQ, Dave is entrusted with managing around 36,000 volunteers and 58 life saver clubs that safeguards the state’s coastline and provide valuable contributions to their local communities.

With over 25 years of experience in senior management and leadership roles with Conrad , Hilton, Tabcorp, Coles/Wesfarmers , Brisbane Racing Club, KPMG, Dave has an extensive track record of success in both the private and public sectors. Along with his experience, Dave also chairs the Emergency Volunteer Advisory Forum (EVAF) and has positions on the SLSQ Board and QTIC Advisory Committee. Dave’s mantra is strategy, structure, staff, and renewal, creativity, and innovation.

Moderator

Associate Professor Jay Weerawardena
Alliance for Social Impact Research Hub Co-Lead, UQ Business School

Associate Professor Jay Weerawardena is globally known for his high impactful research in social entrepreneurship-led social innovation and dual value creation in social purpose organisations (SPOs). His research focuses on strategic capabilities needed for managing tension arising from dual value logics, i.e. social value to communities and commercial value for the sustenance of the SPO. He works with social sector leaders in understanding how this tension can be managed for inclusive sector growth. Jay currently leads a research project on ‘building resilient social enterprises in Queensland’.

The event will provide the perfect opportunity to hear from like-minded industry professionals over a light lunch. Spaces are limited, register now to secure your place!