SociaLink: Bridging Business and Social Impact
SociaLink Tūhono Pāpori is the umbrella organisation for the Western Bay of Plenty’s social and community sector. It created the Business Heroes Directory to connect local businesses with the sector in a practical, mutually beneficial way.
The online directory showcases businesses that offer support to the “For-Purpose Sector” (NFPs, community organisations & charities), in one or more of four ways: discounts, pro bono work, staff volunteer time, or donations.
This makes it easy for not-for-profits to access the services they need, doing more with their limited resources – while giving businesses a way to give back, build their profile, and connect with new customers.
With around 60 businesses listed and growing, the directory includes everything from financial services and marketing to trades and training. It’s free and easy for any business to set up their own listing, share a bit about their services and promote their work, and clearly outline their special offer for community organisations. Having an online profile on the directory can, at the very least, boost their visibility and SEO, but the benefits go far beyond that.
Amplifying Social Impact
SociaLink Chief Executive Liz Davies says SociaLink does not endorse any of the businesses listed in the directory but is grateful for their support.
“I believe most local businesses want to do good and are increasingly recognising that having a positive impact on communities is an important way to attract and engage staff and to sell products and services. Points of difference, such as doing social good in communities, become an important selling point for attracting staff, many of whom are not looking just for a job but are also seeking meaning or a purpose,” she says.
“Customers are increasingly expecting businesses to not just provide a product or a service but to be contributing to their communities and are using their spending power to support those businesses who are doing good.”
A Win-Win-Win Proposition
Leanne Rhodes-Robinson now leads the Business Heroes Directory at SociaLink, having sold her own successful Tauranga education business after 23 years. She still runs two other companies, so she understands what matters to business owners – and how giving back can feel so good and also deliver real business benefits.
“The directory is a real win-win. You’re promoting your business, growing your brand, and making a tangible difference in the community.”
The clear advantages for businesses the directory offers include:
- Gain new business and customers
- Use the ‘For-Purpose Supporter’ badge
- Free advertising, brand visibility, and SEO
- Feel good helping your community
- Generate positive publicity
- Boost employee morale
Join the Movement
“If you think you could give a little to those doing so much for our community, we’d love you to sign up,” says Leanne. “We especially need a wider range of services that community organisations often spend money on – from auditing and insurance, to catering, equipment hire, and trades.”
Register your business in the Business Heroes Directory and be recognised as a For-Purpose Supporter in Tauranga. It’s free, quick, and gives you extra online visibility while connecting you with local organisations that need your services.
Sign up today at businessheroes.org.nz and join other businesses creating positive change in our community.
For further information please contact
Leanne Rhodes-Robinson
