How Blue Earth Forum is Bringing the Next Generation of Sustainable Businesses to You

At the end of June, we were at the Blue Earth Forum, an event that allows investors to connect with startups all that have a sustainable or people and planet-first approach. 

Meaningful change is difficult to achieve without the financial backing necessary to scale an idea. No matter how innovative or sustainable a product or service might be, implementing transformative solutions requires significant resources. This is where the Blue Earth Forum steps in to bridge the gap.

The Blue Earth Forum plays a vital role in connecting sustainable startups with investors who are committed to backing businesses that drive positive change for people and the planet. For entrepreneurs seeking to make a meaningful impact, the Forum offers an invaluable platform to forge relationships with the investors who are ready to make a difference with their capital.

It’s often said that the greatest ideas need the right people and resources behind them to come to life. Through the Blue Earth Forum, entrepreneurs and investors come together to do just that, ensuring that planet-positive ideas don’t remain just ideas, but are scaled to create real, lasting impact. The Blue Earth Summit serves as the conference aspect, but the Forum is where the magic happens – it’s where the connections that lead to positive change are made.

The Power of Communications to Inspire Positive Change

One of the standout panel discussions we attended at the Blue Earth Forum was titled "The Power of Communications to Inspire and Drive Positive Change." This discussion featured leaders from Octopus Energy, The Guardian, Reuters, and GIST Impact, in conversation with communications expert Blakeney. The session explored how impactful communications can drive positive change, ensuring sustainability remains at the top of the agenda across industries.

The conversation focused on how companies can embed sustainability into their business strategies and how authentic, purpose-driven storytelling can help brands resonate with consumers. For those of us at Smiley News, this discussion was particularly relevant. As communicators, we understand the power of storytelling to spark change. At the Blue Earth Forum, we are given the opportunity to amplify the voices of businesses that are not only socially responsible but also environmentally sound.

By sharing the stories of these impactful businesses, their innovative solutions, and their thoughtful research into sustainability, we help create a ripple effect of positivity. It's about showcasing the hard work and the real-world impact of businesses that put planet-first, and ensuring that their stories get the attention they deserve. Authentic storytelling can help inspire the change we need, while highlighting the importance of purpose-led work in the commercial space.

Highlighting Purpose-Driven Brands: Smiley News Features

At Smiley News, we are always eager to shine a spotlight on businesses that are taking innovative steps towards sustainability. Some of the exciting features we've covered recently include:

• eBay’s Commitment to Circularity: eBay is leading the way in promoting a circular economy by offering pre-owned goods as a sustainable alternative to new purchases. By making it easier for consumers to buy and sell second-hand items, eBay is helping reduce waste and extend the lifespan of products.
• BoxFund and Brands Backed by Roger Wade: BoxFund is a forward-thinking initiative that supports purpose-driven brands, and many of these are backed by industry leader Roger Wade. We’ve seen how these brands are redefining what it means to operate ethically and sustainably in today’s market.
• UK Brands That Are Members of 1% for the Planet: More and more UK-based businesses are joining 1% for the Planet, a global movement where companies pledge to donate 1% of their annual sales to environmental causes. We’ve highlighted some of the standout brands in this space, showing how collective action is making a big difference.

By covering these stories, we hope to inspire others to follow suit. As we approach the next Blue Earth Summit, we are excited to see how these and other purpose-led brands will continue to evolve and contribute to a more sustainable future.

Watch the Video with Co-Founder Will Hayler

For an in-depth look at the Blue Earth Forum and its impact, be sure to watch the video of Will Hayler, co-founder of Blue Earth. His insights into how the forum is fostering collaboration between startups and investors are invaluable for anyone looking to be part of the movement.

We can’t wait to see some of our favourite planet-positive brands back at the Blue Earth Summit this October. The event promises to be another opportunity for changemakers to unite and continue the vital work of shaping a sustainable future. Be sure to get your tickets, and we hope to see you there!

Charity Check-in

At Smiley Movement, we like to elevate the work of charities across the world. Here are three charities whose causes align with the themes in this article. 

The Ellen MacArthur Foundation. This is a UK-based charity dedicated to accelerating the transition to a circular economy. They work with businesses, governments, and academia to promote systems that eliminate waste and keep resources in use. Find out more.

The Wildlife Trusts. This is a network of 46 local wildlife charities across the UK focused on protecting natural habitats and wildlife, promoting conservation efforts and sustainable land use practices. Learn more here. 

City to Sea. This is a Bristol-based charity focused on reducing plastic pollution at source, promoting waste reduction, and encouraging people to adopt sustainable practices to protect rivers, oceans, and wildlife. Support them here.

This article aligns with the UN Quality Education, Reduced Inequalities.