French Toast and Free Love for Businesses Supporting the Community
BCP organised an event in June 2006 that recognised a record breaking year for the involvement of local professional firms in the community.
Well over £40,000 of in-kind support was provided to 23 charities and social enterprises in Brighton and Hove by a group of 28 city firms in 2005/6.
The group was addressed by University of Sussex researcher Julie Billaud, who has been investigating the rising popularity of internet dating. Working undercover as "French Toast", Ms Billaud revealed why internet lovers can fail – and what lessons can be learned for business people seeking to support the community.
"Just like on-line love, partnerships between businesses and community groups sometimes run aground because of mis-matched expectations. I wanted to share my experiences of on-line dating so that local businesses can improve the image they project to the community".
By developing ‘personal profiles' for their organisations, both businesses and voluntary organisations attending were able to identify the most attractive features of their organisations, the types of groups they wanted to link up with, and practical ways to work together successfully.
Local businesswoman Alison Tucker, from Ice Palms said "I did wonder if I'd come to the right meeting! But it soon became clear that match-making the right business to the right community group requires care in almost the same way as seeking a life partner!"
Related case studies
Atmosphere crackles as oranges meet apples
Over 50 people from 35 different organisations attended BCP's "matching apples to oranges" networking event. The event brought together representatives from local businesses, community organisations and social enterprises to learn about eachother's work and share resources.
Our induction events set you up for success
BCP runs monthly induction meetings for new and renewing members to meet, identify goals and build relationships based on exchanging skills and resources.
Call of Nature Networking Event 2006
Over 100 people from some of Brighton's leading businesses and voluntary organisations attended the Business Community Partnership winter networking event where they drew inspiration from nature on building cross-sectoral partnerships.
