Foundations for Responsible Business

Foundations for Responsible Business is our longest running programme designed to support small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to lead their business responsibly by becoming more ethical, sustainable, and community focused in their approach. By joining the programme, you’ll have access to 1:1 support, industry-leading expertise, and a network of like-minded businesses to help your business to thrive.

Join a community of SMEs doing well by doing good

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With a diverse annual calendar of online learning sessions, expert-led workshops, 1:1 support, and in-person networking events, our programme offers you the tools and guidance in four key areas: People, Community, Environment and Approach. Whether you’re new to responsible business practices or looking to advance your efforts, our programme adapts to your specific needs, ensuring practical, actionable outcomes. Apart from our occasional in-person networking events, our programme is predominantly online so you can take part no matter where your business is based!

Ideal for UK businesses with 9–250 employees across any industry, the programme equips you to embed responsible and sustainable practices seamlessly into your business.

Take a look at our case studies from those who’ve taken part or are still benefiting from being part of our community here: Staytite, Edentree, WR-AP and McGregor Boyall Associates.

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What’s involved?

Enjoy a structured online programme designed to fit into your busy schedule:

To start, a Responsible Business Health Check will establish your baseline on responsible business and track your progress.
1:1 support from the Heart of the City team to advise and guide you.
A variety of workshops to inspire and inform, and provide opportunities to connect with other businesses.
Online and in-person events throughout the year, including live Q&A Surgery sessions with industry experts.
Recorded sessions and a library of resources for flexible learning.

Benefits to your business

Caring about your people, community, and the environment means better business:

Improved employee engagement and retention.
Enhanced reputation with clients, investors, and partners.
A visible commitment to sustainability and responsible business that attracts new opportunities.
Develop you and your employees’ skills to drive business growth.
Being a part of an active online community of SMEs who want to be a force for good.

What does the programme cover?

People: Build a more motivated and engaged workforce by supporting your staff in areas such as mental health, a commitment to the living wage, and fostering diversity and inclusion at all levels.

Community: Discover ways to give back, measure social value, and forge meaningful connections with the communities you serve and operate within.

Environment: Learn how to measure your carbon footprint, reduce emissions, and embed sustainability across your business practices.

Approach: Create a responsible business / sustainability strategy for your business, and share learning and tools that engage colleagues at all levels – inspiring them to play their part.

Siemens’ sponsored cohort.

How does it work?

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Designed with flexibility and accessibility in mind, the programme runs predominantly online, with a few in-person events to enhance productive networking opportunities.

We start with our Responsible Business Health Check to assess your current practices and identify priorities. Next, you will benefit from 1:1 guidance to shape your priorities for the year. You can attend expert-led events and access a rich library of resources anytime.

Throughout the programme, you’ll network with peers, participate in focused discussions, and implement learnings at your own pace. Check-ins with the team  will ensure you’re on track to meet your goals, with progress measured at the end of the year.

Whether you engage for one year or continue building momentum over the years to follow, our Foundations for Responsible Business is here to support you as your business grows.

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PROGRAMME COSTS View pricing
From £950
UNDER 50 EMPLOYEES
£950 + VAT
50-249 EMPLOYEES
£1,650 +VAT
250+ EMPLOYEES
£3,250 +VAT

Apply now

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