Sustainable Connections, a nonprofit dedicated to strengthening the local economy and helping businesses integrate sustainability practices, is excited to announce a new half-day conference, The Smart Business Summit, on Jan 25 in Bellingham.
Businesses will come together for actionable, take-home knowledge on sustainability reporting and better business performance. The half-day summit will host inspiring speakers such as keynote Kevin Wilhelm, who has more than 20 years of experience helping companies set and execute sustainability goals, and Loribeth Dalton, from the nationally acclaimed human resources and talent search firm, Waldron. The Summit will also feature Stephanie Ryan from B-Lab who will draw out important experiences from a local business leader panel including Jane Carten of Saturna Capital, and Melissa Elkins from the Community Food Co-op.
Businesses will learn how to focus on reporting for economic, environmental, and social performance in order to improve productivity and reduce costs, and connect with the larger community. Attendees will learn why and how sustainable businesses attract and retain the best talent, and how to utilize consumer insights in order for each business to tell their sustainability story in a transparent and effective way.
Following the Summit, Sustainable Connections will host the Sustainability Champion Awards, an annual recognition of businesses that are pioneers in our local economy. Drawn from the four tenets of Sustainable Connections mission, the awards recognize leaders in the following four categories: Strong Community, Healthy Environment, Meaningful Employment and Buying Local First, as well as a Lifetime Achievement Award for an individual who has lead the way in making positive changes within their business and the greater community.
The Smart Business Summit will be held at the Crystal Ballroom at the Leopold, January 25th from 11-5pm. Tickets are $65 – $75, and includes lunch, refreshments and a happy hour beverage. Early bird pricing ends January 19th. To register, and for the event agenda and details visit Sustainable Connections website.
The Smart Business Summit is made possible by generous support from Saturna Capital, Healthy Pet, the Community Food Co-op, and Beneficial State Bank. Special thanks also goes out to Sustainable Connections Sustainable Business Development Program Sponsors: Sampson Rope, Healthy Pet, Home2Suites, itek Energy, Mt. Baker Care Center, Beneficial State Bank, Chrysalis Inn & Spa, Faber Construction, Samuel’s Furniture, and Heritage Bank.