Shared Value occurs where companies create business value by identifying and addressing social problems that intersect with their business.

Hosted by Regional Development Australia (RDA) – Murray, the Shared Value Forum Albury-Wodonga will be held in Wodonga on October 21.

RDA – Murray chief executive Dr Gary Saliba said Shared Value was gaining momentum on the Border and in surrounding regions such as Wagga.

“The approach is growing all around the world and there’s a real leadership opportunity for our region to take it on and embrace it,” he said.

Dr Saliba said Shared Value projects would promote regional development.

He said strong regional communities needed both economic and social development to thrive and reach their potential.

“Jobs and employment growth is one side of the equation but it’s not enough,” Dr Saliba said.

“The two work hand-in-hand from a regional development perspective.”

The half-day forum will identify the six key steps to a Shared Value project; hear the context of Shared Value and the Purpose of the Corporation; provide real-world examples of Shared Value success in our community; workshop some Shared Value scenarios with other participants; and discuss projects and resources needed in the next 12 months.

Among the speakers will be Chris Halburd from Skinners & Associates – solicitor and B Corp Europe board member; Dr Gary Saliba – RDA Murray chief executive; Donna Argus – Department of Family and Community Services; Maryanne Scully – www.globalsisters.org; and Catherine Jefferies, Rural Housing Network client services manager.

Forum organisers said the program would suit anyone who was interested in learning more or progressing a Shared Value project during the next 12-24 months.

They said employees, managers, business owners and/or board members were welcome.

The forum will be held at La Maison Cafe, Gateway Island, Wodonga, on October 21 from 8.45am to noon.

For bookings visit www.eventbrite.com.au/e/shared-value-forum-albury-wodonga-tickets-27744589815