How the NZ Business Connect Social Giving programme is making a difference in local communities
Business growth and community impact are often viewed as separate goals, but at NZ Business Connect, they go hand in hand.
While networking, referrals and professional development remain key pillars of the organisation, Social Giving has become an important part of what makes NZ Business Connect different. The programme is built on a simple belief: when businesses come together, they have the power to create positive change within the communities where they live and work.
Through its Social Giving initiative, NZ Business Connect encourages members to look beyond business success and consider how they can contribute to causes that support individuals, families and communities across New Zealand.
NZ Business Connect Founder Phillip Quay said giving back has always been part of the organisation’s vision.
“NZ Business Connect was established to help businesses connect and grow, but we also wanted to create opportunities for members to make a meaningful difference in the wider community,” said Phillip.
“Social Giving allows businesses to be part of something bigger. By working together, even small contributions can have a significant impact on the lives of people who need support.”
One of the key organisations supported through the programme is Waikato Women’s Refuge, which provides essential services to women and children affected by family violence. Through fundraising initiatives, awareness campaigns and community events, NZ Business Connect members have helped raise both funds and awareness for the organisation’s important work.
The organisation also supports the Graeme Dingle Foundation, helping strengthen programmes that empower young New Zealanders through mentoring, life skills development and positive role modelling.
A highlight of the Social Giving programme was the NZ Business Connect Social Giving Event held in Hamilton, which brought together business leaders, community organisations and supporters for an evening focused on giving back. The event raised thousands of dollars for Waikato Women’s Refuge while creating valuable conversations around the role businesses can play in supporting local communities.
For many NZ Business Connect members, Social Giving provides an opportunity to align business success with social responsibility.
Rather than being a one-off initiative, the programme is designed to create long-term partnerships with community organisations and encourage ongoing involvement from businesses across the network. Members are regularly introduced to charitable organisations, fundraising opportunities and community projects where they can contribute their time, expertise or resources.
Phillip believes businesses are uniquely positioned to create meaningful change.
“Businesses are often deeply connected to their local communities. Through Social Giving, we’re creating opportunities for our members to use those connections to support causes that matter and help build stronger communities for future generations.”
As NZ Business Connect continues to expand across Hamilton, Tauranga and Auckland, Social Giving remains a core part of its mission.
The programme reflects the organisation’s commitment to creating value beyond networking by fostering a business community that not only supports each other’s growth but also contributes to the wellbeing of the wider community.
For members, Social Giving is more than a charitable initiative. It is an opportunity to be part of a network that believes success is measured not only by business achievements, but also by the positive impact created along the way.
Media Contact:
Phillip Quay
Founder, NZ Business Connect
027 458 7724
info@nzbusinessconnect.co.nz