Hosted by the Australian Centre for Rural Entrepreneurship in collaboration with the Rochester Business Network and Rochester Community House, the event will provide an opportunity for the community to collaborate on Rochester’s future.
A globally recognised social enterprise, ACRE works to renew rural communities and help ensure future generations can thrive through innovative programs and real-world learning.
Rochester Business Network president Sanjay Ranchhod said the event would encourage new ideas and collaboration within the town.
“We’re excited to welcome (ACRE) to Rochester and start exploring what’s possible for the future of our town,” he said.
“This is a real opportunity for our community to come together, share ideas and help shape something meaningful that supports local people, businesses and the long-term growth of Rochester.
“No idea is too small, some of the best community projects start with a simple conversation.”
Held on Wednesday, May 20, at Rochester Racecourse Recreation Reserve, the event will feature a series of networking and learning sessions across the day.
It will begin with the Business and Agency Breakfast from 7am, where attendees will receive an introduction to social enterprise and community ownership.
Participants will also hear examples from rural communities in Australia and overseas and have the opportunity to ask questions.
Following the breakfast, a more in-depth introduction to social enterprise will give participants a clearer understanding of how social enterprises work in practice and how they can be used to create opportunities and solve local challenges.
The two-hour interactive workshop will run from 10am to 12pm.
From 1pm, the Demystifying Entrepreneurship workshop will explore what entrepreneurship looks like in practice and how ideas, innovation and enterprise take shape in the real world.
The day will then conclude with an Evening Connect session, where participants can come together to discuss what social enterprise could mean for Rochester.
Co-founder and ACRE chief executive Matt Pfahlert said ACRE was looking forward to the event.
“We’re really looking forward to connecting with the Rochester community,” he said.
“Through interactive workshops, shared experiences and practical discussions, participants will hear real stories from other rural communities and explore opportunities for Rochester.”
Community members are welcome to attend one or all of the sessions throughout the day.
Those unable to attend on Wednesday can also visit one of the one-on-one drop-in sessions on Thursday, May 21, at the old SR Health shop at 60 Mackay St.
To register, email admin@rochesterbusinessnetwork.com.au or register via https://tinyurl.com/b27x43c9
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