A networking group with a difference is to be launched in Huddersfield next month.
The Ethical Networking Event on Thursday October 22 aims to bring people together to celebrate Huddersfield’s proud history of fairness, innovation and inclusion.
The event at Fresh Futures at Brian Jackson House in Huddersfield town centre is being hosted by Chris Naylor, managing director of digital marketing agency Bnode Ltd.
Chris said: “Huddersfield has always had a reputation for doing things differently with a strong sense of community and a history of innovation.
“The town has long been a place where people, businesses and organisations have worked together to improve lives, create opportunities and support one another and it’s that shared spirit which has inspired The Ethical Networking Event.”
Chris hopes to bring together businesses, charities, public sector organisations and community leaders who believe commercial success and ethical responsibility go hand in hand.
Chris added: “I want to encourage meaningful conversations around ethical business, accessibility, sustainability, inclusion and responsible growth, while giving local organisations the opportunity to build genuine relationships that go beyond exchanging business cards.
“Unlike traditional networking events, the focus is not simply on generating leads. Instead, the event encourages businesses to ask a different question.”
Chris said ethical business wasn’t about perfection, it was a journey. It was also an opportunity to look forward, adapt and embrace change.
“Huddersfield has repeatedly shown that it can embrace change while retaining its strong community values and The Ethical Networking Event reflects that same spirit.
“It is an opportunity to celebrate local businesses that are already making a difference, while inspiring others to think differently about the role they play within their communities,” said Chris.
“Whether organisations are taking their first steps towards becoming more accessible, improving environmental sustainability, supporting employee wellbeing or strengthening relationships with local charities, every positive action contributes towards creating a stronger local economy.
“Ethical business is not about perfection. It is about making better decisions, being transparent about challenges and continually looking for ways to improve. That message sits at the heart of this event.”
Across the UK, organisations are increasingly recognising that customers, employees and investors expect businesses to demonstrate more than financial success.
They want organisations that treat people fairly, support their local communities, operate transparently and actively reduce barriers for those who have historically been excluded.
Research from the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) has consistently shown that cities and regions which invest in inclusion, collaboration and equal opportunities experience stronger long-term economic resilience, higher levels of innovation and more sustainable growth than those that do not.
Inclusive communities are better equipped to attract investment, retain talent and respond to future economic challenges.
The event is designed to encourage honest conversations, shared learning and practical collaboration.
For many organisations, the greatest opportunities for growth do not come from finding new customers. They come from building stronger partnerships with businesses that share similar values and are committed to creating lasting positive impact.
The event, which runs from 9am-11.30am, welcomes business owners, charities, social enterprises, public sector organisations, educators, students and professionals who believe collaboration, inclusion and ethical leadership can help shape a stronger future for Huddersfield and the wider Kirklees area.
Places are limited and advance booking is recommended.
Further information and booking details can be found at:
https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/the-ethical-networking-event-huddersfield-tickets-1993205614649
