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Upcoming Green Business Events 2008
Save the date - many exciting green and socially responsible business events and conferences are just around the corner! To keep you, our audience, in the know, Green Business Innovators has put together a diverse list of green/socially responsible business events, forums, festivals and conferences happening throughout North America over the next couple of months. Get out there, and get green!
If your green business event is missing from this list, please share the details of your event by submitting a comment below. Cheers! (And a special thanks to Kate Krueger for compiling this list)
October 13, 2008
Social Capital Markets
San Francisco, CA
At SoCap08, attendees will learn what works and what doesn’t in this new world of social capital and social entrepreneurs, which hybrid social & business models reach sustainability and which don’t, and where this emerging industry is headed. Attendees will be able to network with their peers, discovering a whole new realm of people they had hoped existed - organizations, groups, and individuals who share the same intention to launch and support sustainable businesses designed to impact global and local problems. Investors and entrepreneurs will find themselves helping to build a new community, gaining encouragement as they realize that they are not alone, but are part of something big, important - and rapidly growing.
Event Website: http://socialcapitalmarkets.net/index.php
Speaker Lineup: http://socialcapitalmarkets.net/speakers.php
October 14, 2008
Sustainable Industries Economic Forum
Portland, OR
In a stormy and unprecedented economic climate, businesses large and small are pursuing economic advantage through ambitious environmental innovation and social responsibility. The West Coast — Portland, Seattle and San Francisco in particular — is home to successful business thought leaders who have long understood the economic potential of sustainability. Still, tough viability questions and real economic context are sorely lacking, as are authentic, inspirational events that capture the true opportunity in going “beyond green.” Sustainable Industries helps address this need with our annual, reputable Sustainable Industries Economic Forums.
Event Page & Speaker Lineup: http://www.sustainableindustries.com/forums/portland
October 14-16, 2008
Associations and Social Responsibility: Carrying the Movement Forward
Online Summit
Hosted by ASAE & The Center for Association Leadership, the Global Summit on Social Responsibility united more than 800 association professionals and stakeholders in Washington, DC and 19 connected locations around the world and online to co-create a social responsibility agenda for the future of the association profession. The Project Action Teams that emerged from this pioneering event have refined their goals, outlined necessary action steps, and broadened their recruitment of colleagues and other organizations ready to move beyond conversation to actual identification of the business opportunities and substantive impact of positive change-making for a just and healthy world. Join ASAE & The Center, Appreciative Inquiry creator and Professor David Cooperrider, Ph.D.; and the iCohere/OvationNet Team as they facilitate an always-available, online-only summit, Associations and Social Responsibility: Carrying the Movement Forward, that marks the next leg in our sector’s journey toward greater sustainability.
Event Page: http://www.icohere.com/gssr/index.htm
Speaker Lineup: http://www.icohere.com/gssr/presenters.htm
October 15-17, 2008
Sustainable Supply Chain Summit, North America
San Francisco, CA
Get the know-how you need to successfully incorporate and implement the latest greening strategies into your supply chain.
Event Page: http://events.eyefortransport.com/SustainableSupplyChain/
October 16, 2008
The Feast Conference
New York, NY
“The Feast” will gather 150 of the world’s leading creative mavericks, entrepreneurs, revolutionaries, radicals, and innovators together to inspire action to change the world. Whether you’re a social entrepreneur or socially conscious at heart, The Feast will provide you with an excellent platform for inspiration, connection, and action. The Feast will be held at the Scandinavia House in New York City on October 16th. We hope you will support us and join us in bringing the best and brightest minds together to make the world a better place.
Event Page:http://www.thefeastconference.com
Speaker Lineup: http://www.alldaybuffet.org/thefeast/speakers.html
October 16, 2008
Hanson Bridgett Sustainable Business Forum:
Leadership in Energy, Environmental, and Business Design
San Francisco, CA
Business leaders from the building industry are invited to discuss how they are working to promote buildings that are environmentally responsible, profitable and healthy places to live and work. The panel will focus on practical solutions that can transform the way buildings and communities are designed, built and operated, that support business objectives and achieve a high return on investment.
Event Page: http://www.hansonbridgett.com/practices_industries/sb_sustainable_forums.php
October 16, 2008
14th Annual Socially Responsible Business Awards
Boston, MA
Founded in 1994, the Socially Responsible Business Awards honor the highest achievement in corporate and individual behavior as it relates to exemplary business citizenship in the rapidly growing natural, organic and sustainable products marketplace.
Event Page: http://www.sociallyresponsibleawards.org/index.html
October 16-17, 2008
World Blu Live
New York, NY
WorldBlu LIVE is the only conference in the world that connects you directly to the top leaders of organizations on the WorldBlu List of Most Democratic Workplaces(TM) as well as other thought-leaders and mavericks who will share their unique stories, best practices, and leadership strategies for building a world-class democratic workplace. WorldBlu List awardees have been featured in The Wall Street Journal, US News & World Report, BusinessWeek, Fortune Small Business Magazine and other media globally. Now, for the first time, we’re bringing their remarkable stories to you.
Event Page: http://www.worldblu.com/
Speaker Lineup: http://www.worldblu.com/live/2008/speakers.php
October 16-17, 2008
International Association of Business Communicators
Vancouver, British Columbia
As more CEOs elevate corporate social responsibility (CSR) to a core business strategy, it appears as though CSR is getting ready for its close up. However, many companies lag behind in helping their key stakeholder understand what CSR has to do with them. Sounds like a golden opportunity for today’s communicator. Are you ready to assume your leadership role in communicating your company’s CSR initiatives to internal and external audiences. Plan to attend IABC’s Communicating Social Responsibility Conference 16-17 October in Vancouver, British Columbia. An indispensable event for communicators, this best-practice conference features Canada’s leaders in CSR communications and authentic case studies that demonstrate companies conducting business responsibly to better the planet, their communities and their employees’ work environments.
Event Page: http://www.iabc.com/csr/CanadaProgram.htm
October 17, 2008
Entrepreneurship in a Global Economy
Springfield, MA
Join international policy makers, scholars, and practitioners to explore global issues relating to entrepreneurship and community development, and discuss the challenges facing existing small businesses and start-ups.
Event Page: http://www1.law.wnec.edu/lawandbusiness/index.cfm?selection=doc.4297
October 17, 2008
Massachusetts Summit on Progressive Business
Boston, MA
Panels comprised of leading CEOs, top policy-makers and media will lead interactive forums sponsored by the PBLN Working Groups on Education, Energy & Environment, Health Care, Housing & Economic Development, and Life Sciences.
Event Page: http://www.pbln.org/nextconference.html
October 17-19, 2008
Bioneers Conference
San Rafeal, CA
The Bioneers Conference is an acclaimed leading-edge forum where you can see tomorrow today: a future environment of hope. Social and scientific innovators focus on breakthrough solutions inspired by nature and human ingenuity. These visionaries are already creating a healthy, equitable, diverse and beautiful world, our legacy for future generations and the web of life on which our lives depend. Here you can connect with hundreds or thousands of engaged folks making a real difference.
Event Page: http://www.bioneers.org/conference
Speaker Lineup: http://www.bioneers.org/presenters
October 20,2008
6th Annual Summit on Corporate Social Responsibility
Toronto, Ontario
How are Canada’s top companies adapting to the changing needs of key stakeholders and how are hese parties changing the face of corporate responsibility. Gain new insight into the needs of key stakeholder groups and the opportunities and challenges for your company.
- How can you manage the growing shareholder pressure for corporate disclosure?
- Are customers really voting with their dollars and what do they expect?
- How can you attract and retain employees through a winning CSR program?
- What makes a community investment program strategic?
- What opportunities and threats are companies realizing around climate change?
- How should your company tackle the complex issues of product stewardship?
Event Page: http://guest.cvent.com/EVENTS/Info/Summary.aspx?e=a3293b29-40a7-41d2-b1bf-e3d9c27e4e6d
Speaker lineup: http://guest.cvent.com/EVENTS/Info/Custom.aspx?cid=18&e=a3293b29-40a7-41d2-b1bf-e3d9c27e4e6d
October 20, 2008
Branding for Sustainability
New York, NY
Join executives from EILEEN FISHER, strategy consultancy SustainAbility, branding agency BBMG, CSRwire and Ode Magazine for a workshop series on sustainability and brand value.
Designed for CEOs, CMOs, brand managers, communications directors and CSR/sustainability officers, the informative panel and interactive work session will explore how the latest trends in branding and marketing are advancing corporate sustainability programs, creating new opportunities for business innovation and offering new possibilities for triple bottom line value creation.
Event Page: http://www.brandingforsustainability.com/ny.html
October 22-24, 2008
2008 EHS Management Forum: Managing the Green
Memphis, TN
NAEM’s Forum is the perfect professional learning venue for you to benchmark your programs and exchange ideas with other EHS & Environment managers. The conference program’s 24 interactive sessions and four (4) keynotes ensure that you will bring back immediately useful and worthwhile knowledge. We have some awesome speakers lined up this year including a Senior Partner at the Covey Group (7 Habits of Highly Effective People) and Dennis Dimick, the Executive Editor at National Geographic Magazine among many others!
Event Page: http://ehsforum2008.naem.org/speakers.html
Speaker Lineup: http://ehsforum2008.naem.org/speakers.html
October 23-24, 2008
Utopia Foundation Corporate Leadership and Sustainability Conference
Traverse City, Michigan
Corporate Leadership and Sustainability Summit (CLASS) provides an opportunity for business leaders (both for-profit and nonprofit),managers and social entrepreneurs to learn practical methods of turning good ideas and intentions into deliverable solutions that support both corporate values and the greater good. CLASS is timely and relevant to business leaders and managers as they assume roles as bridge-builders in the search for solutions to global economic, social and environmental challenges, and gain a deeper understanding of how best business practices impact future generations.
Event Page: http://www.utopiafound.org/index.php/initiatives/summit
October 26-29, 2008
SRI in the Rockies
Whistler, British Columbia
SRI in the Rockies is the premier annual gathering of the Sustainable and Responsible Investment industry in North America. Over 700 investment practitioners and professionals in related fields are expected to attend this year’s conference.The conference features two agenda tracks: Professional Education, and Social Issues. The latest information and research regarding the impact of climate change on the investment industry, portfolio screening, corporate responsibility, shareholder engagement, community investing, and many other pertinent topics will be covered. Participants will have many opportunities to learn from, and network with, passionate, creative people working to make money while making a difference. Now in its 19th year, SRI in the Rockies is co-produced by First Affirmative Financial Network, and the Social Investment Forum. This year’s theme, Beyond Borders: Investing & Partnering for a Sustainable World, reflects the increasing global reach of Sustainable and Responsible Investing.
Event Page: http://www.SRIintheRockies.com/
October 26-29, 2008
2008 National Renewable Energy Marketing Conference
Denver, CO
For over a decade, the National Renewable Energy Marketing Conference has been the industry’s paramount annual gathering attended by leading renewable energy and green power industry stakeholders. Each year the most influential key players, including power marketers, renewable energy developers, large purchasers, retail and wholesale green power suppliers, electric utilities, equipment manufacturers, government agencies, energy consultants and nonprofit experts gather to listen to their peers present on the major issues facing the industry. This year’s conference promises to be our largest yet and will take place in scenic Denver, Colorado on October 26-29, 2008.
Event Page: http://www.renewableenergymarketing.net/
October 27-28, 2008
Lean to Green Manufacturing
Portland, OR
Lean to Green Manufacturing is an event designed to provide manufacturers knowledge on how to turn lean practices into green results. Hear how other companies are embracing lean principles to eliminate waste in their processes, save money and become more competitive.
Event Page: http://www.sme.org/cgi-bin/get-event.pl?–001792-000007-home–SME-
October 28, 2008
Innovating and Adapting in the Emerging 3.0 World
San Francisco, CA
We are entering a 3.0 World that is giving rise to a New Capitalism, an Age of Innovation and an emerging Energy-Climate Era all at once. During this time of great change, all bets are off, prediction is impossible and innovative adaptability is imperative. This business and society altering change is shaping up to be as significant as the Industrial Revolution and the Renaissance combined. It is being birthed and formed during a time of increasing climate chaos, failing institutions and huge financial disruption. It is a time, like other eras of great change, where in the midst of enormous challenges, new opportunities arise for those who have the courage to look at reality directly and with this awareness creatively adapt and innovate.
Join Dan and Meredith Beam and New Voice of Business as we explore this 3.0 world and its impact on you, your business and your future.
Event Page: http://www.newvoiceofbusiness.org/index.cfmfuseaction=Calendar.eventDetail&eventId=50&nodeID=1
October 28, 2008
EcoTuesday
San Francisco, CA
Come listen to a panel of futurists and visionaries share their thoughts and perspectives about where sustainability is headed, what to look forward to, and what we should be aware of as change agents on the cutting edge.
Event Page: http://ecotuesday-october28-sanfrancisco.eventbrite.com/
October 28, 2008
EcoTuesday
Seattle, WA
Come listen to a panel of futurists and visionaries share their thoughts and perspectives about where sustainability is headed, what to look forward to, and what we should be aware of as change agents on the cutting edge.
Event Page: http://ecotuesday-oct28-seattle.eventbrite.com/
October 28, 2008
EcoTuesday
Washington DC
Come listen to a panel of futurists and visionaries share their thoughts and perspectives about where sustainability is headed, what to look forward to, and what we should be aware of as change agents on the cutting edge.
Event Page: http://ecotuesday-october28-dc.eventbrite.com/
October 28-29, 2008
SustainPro Conference
Rosemont, IL
Over 91% of corporate environmental impact and 60% of corporate costs fall into 4 areas: Energy, IT, Facilities and Waste. Those four areas are the focus of the largest-ever corporate sustainable operations event, the SustainPro Conference, October 29-30, 2008 at the Stephens Convention Center at Chicago’s O’Hare Airport.
Event Page: http://www.sustainpro.com/
October 29, 2008
Sustainable Business Success
New York, NY
Sustainable Business Success (SBS) is designed as a fast-paced, interaction-rich overview of how sustainability ties to tangible business benefits. Representatives from some of the most innovative companies showing the way to green and sustainable business practices will lead the discussion of best practices in all aspects of business operations - from transportation and logistics, information technology and facilities management to purchasing and HR. Presenters will share their experience on how to get started, hurdles to overcome and what does not work, and will offer tips for success and a view in to what bottom line results can be achieved today.
Event Page: http://www.sustainablelifemedia.com/events/eco-advantagesalons/nyc
Speaker Lineup: http://www.sustainablelifemedia.com/events/eco-advantagesalons/nyc/speakers
November 4-7, 2008
BSR Conference 2008; Sustainability: Leadership Required
New York, NY
With sustainability at the top of the world’s agenda, the global business landscape is changing fast. Staying ahead of the curve requires dynamic leadership and systemic solutions that deliver solid financial, social and environmental results. The BSR Conference will equip you to tackle the sustainability challenges of today and tomorrow. Interact with innovators in responsible business, like Jeffrey Immelt of GE, IKEA’s Anders Dahlvig and John Anderson of Levi’s-plus dozens of other thought leaders in six plenary and 35 breakout sessions. Connect with more than 1,300 leaders from 50 countries at one of the world’s largest and most influential event dedicated to corporate responsibility, and put your sustainable business strategies into action.
Event Page: http://www.bsr.org/bsrconferences/2008/index.cfm
Speaker Lineup: http://www.bsr.org/bsrconferences/2008/speakers.cfm
November 5, 2008
Sustainable Industries Economic Forum
Seattle, WA
In a stormy and unprecedented economic climate, businesses large and small are pursuing economic advantage through ambitious environmental innovation and social responsibility. The West Coast — Portland, Seattle and San Francisco in particular — is home to successful business thought leaders who have long understood the economic potential of sustainability. Still, tough viability questions and real economic context are sorely lacking, as are authentic, inspirational events that capture the true opportunity in going “beyond green.”
Event Page: http://www.sustainableindustries.com/forums/seattle
November 8-9, 2008
Opportunity Green
Los Angeles, CA
Opportunity Green is a convergence of the prime movers & shakers and the up & coming innovators driving today’s new green economy. Rub elbows with 500 of the best and brightest thought leaders: entrepreneurs, business leaders, investors and designers, all focused on building socially responsible and sustainable enterprises.
Event Page: http://www.opportunitygreen.com/
Speaker Lineup: http://www.opportunitygreen.com/conference-speakers.php
November 8-9, 2008
Green Festival
Washington DC
At the Washington DC Green Festival, a joint project of Global Exchange and Co-op America, we’re celebrating what’s working in our communities-across the District, Maryland and Virginia-for people, for business and for the environment.You’ll enjoy more than 125 renowned speakers and 350 green businesses (start your holiday shopping now!), great how-to workshops, green films, a Fair Trade pavilion, yoga classes, organic beer, delicious organic cuisine and live music.Find out about DC environmental initiatives; and learn how neighbors, community nonprofits and city departments are working together to make their cities healthier places to live.
Event Page: http://www.greenfestivals.org/washington-dc-2008/
Speaker Lineup: http://www.greenfestivals.org/speaker-directory/washington-dc-2008/
November 11-12, 2008
Investors’ Circle 2008 Fall Conference & Venture Fair
Boston, MA
The Investors’ Circle 2008 Fall Conference is the premier meeting place for angel investors, professional venture capitalists, philanthropic investors, and entrepreneurs who are using private capital to promote the transition to a sustainable future. To date, the Investors’ Circle network has invested over $130 million in 200 companies and small funds. Our 2007 Fall Conference drew over 300 attendees, including over 150 investors. The last three conferences have resulted in over $11 million in total investment in approximately 1/3 of presenting ventures, with additional investments pending. If you are interested in presenting at the Venture Fair at our 2008 Fall Conference, please apply by August 1, 2008.
Event Page: http://www.investorscircle.net/events-1/2008-fall-conference-venture-fair
Speaker Lineup: http://www.investorscircle.net/events-1/speakers-fall-2008
November 12-13, 2008
Co-Op America Green Business Conference
San Francisco, CA
Starving for a green connection? Roll up your sleeves and bite into the green business revolution at this hands-on conference. You will:
- Discover the power of the emerging green marketplace
- Learn how to market for success - yours and the planet’s
- Network with green businesses like yours
- Get inspired by innovative business leaders
- Discover the business case for going green
- Hold up the beacon of authenticity in the age of greenwashing
Event Page: http://www.coopamerica.org/cabn/conference/sanfrancisco/program.cfm
November 12-14, 2008
Going Green for Financial Services 2008
Washington DC
Develop and Implement Green Initiatives to Enhance Your Institution’s Market Position, Profitability, and Customer Loyalty. What You Will Learn:
- Align Your Green Initiatives with Corporate Objectives
- Tie organizational objectives and goals to your sustainability and green initiatives
- Improve Your Bottom Line through Your Green Campaign
- Realize the competitive advantage gained by recognizing the changing environment and attitudes of your customers
- Transition to Paperless Statements and e-Bills
- Promote paperless e-bills as a cost-effective and environmentally sound practice for your institution
- Avoid the “Green Washing” Labe
- Differentiate yourself from the “green washing” label to gain credibility and enhance customer loyalty
Event Page: http://www.asmiweb.com/events/B260.html
November 13-18, 2008
2008 Net Impact North America Conference; The Sustainable Advantage: Creating Social and Environmental Value
Philidelphia, PA
The Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania is proud to host the 2008 Net Impact North America Conference, “The Sustainable Advantage: Creating Social and Environmental Value”. On November 13-15, 2008, more than 1,800 graduate students and professionals will assemble in Philadelphia, PA to discuss how businesses and organizations can effectively address social and environmental challenges of the 21st century. The conference will foster enriching and inspirational discussion, present opportunities for professional development and networking, and challenge conventional definitions of success in the business field.
Event Page: http://www.netimpact.org/displaycommon.cfm?an=1&subarticlenbr=2002
Speaker Lineup: http://netimpact.org/displaycommon.cfm?an=1&subarticlenbr=2055
November 14- 16, 2008
Green Festival
San Francisco
Welcome to the San Francisco Green Festival, a joint project of Global Exchange and Co-op America. Each year, this San Francisco event never ceases to amaze us.As a fledgling in 2002, San Francisco started with only 50 speakers and a handful of special events. Today, the San Francisco Green Festival boasts 3 days filled with the best in green, and continues to expand in size and scope! With more than 150 renowned speakers and 400 green businesses, this event is not to be missed!Find out how Bay Area neighbors, community nonprofits and city departments are working together to make their cities healthier places to live.
Event Page: http://www.greenfestivals.org/san-francisco-2008/
Speaker Lineup: http://www.greenfestivals.org/speaker-directory/san-francisco-2007/
November 20-21, 2008
Green Retail USA
Chicago, IL
Green Retail USA will bring together the biggest names in retail for a two day summit on sustainable retail. Hosted in Chicago, it will present retailers and consumer experts across American retail sector, and attract senior managers in presenting an energetic environment to incorporate and maximize sustainability strategies.
Event Page: http://www.eventrus-conferences.com/index_GRUSA.htm
Speaker Lineup: http://www.eventrus-conferences.com/GRUSA-agenda.htm
November 21, 2008
The Greener Side: Achieving Successful and Sustainable Marketing
New York, NY
- The Marketing Association of Columbia invites you to cross over to The Greener Side to discuss:
- Building a bridge between successful and sustainable marketing?
- Inspiring green corporate practices from within an organization?
- Shaping customer preferences with green leadership?
- The future evolution of green initiatives
Event Page: http://www0.gsb.columbia.edu/students/organizations/mac/conferencewebsite2008/index.htm
Speaker lineup: http://www0.gsb.columbia.edu/students/organizations/mac/conferencewebsite2008/index.htm
December 2, 2008
Sustainable Industries Economic Forum
San Francisco, CA
In a stormy and unprecedented economic climate, businesses large and small are pursuing economic advantage through ambitious environmental innovation and social responsibility. The West Coast — Portland, Seattle and San Francisco in particular — is home to successful business thought leaders who have long understood the economic potential of sustainability. Still, tough viability questions and real economic context are sorely lacking, as are authentic, inspirational events that capture the true opportunity in going “beyond green.”
Event Page: http://www.sustainableindustries.com/forums/sanfrancisco
December 3-4, 2008
Good and Green: The Green Marketing Conference
Chicago, IL
As today’s consumers grow more educated and concerned about the fate of their planet, they’re demanding more responsibility from their brands. Are you listening? Are you prepared? At Good And Green you’ll learn how to increase your brand’s emotional, cognitive and financial connection in today’s “greening” consumer markets.
Event Page: http://www.goodandgreen.biz/
Speaker Lineup: http://www.goodandgreen.biz/session_speakers.php
December 9-11, 2008
Achieving a Green Supply Chain
Atlantic City, NJ
A Two-Day Strategic Event Bringing Together Businesses From Different Industries To Learn How Your Organization Can Improve Operations, Agility, Promote Alignment And Reduce Waste Through Greening The Supply Chain
Event Page: http://www.acius.net/Conferences/Upcoming?view=overview&id=88
December 9-11, 2008
Sustainable Brands International
Miami Beach, FL
Sustainable Brands International is home for brand leaders from companies of all shapes and sizes who are positioning themselves for long term success in the 21st Century. At SBi you’ll find the antidote to negative world news. A place where change makers gather to share their latest learning and ideas about how to create sustainable business value. SBi convenes a dynamic mix of big global brands and innovative start ups. Of product designers, sustainability thought leaders and brand communications experts. This mash up people from different market sectors, geographic regions, company sizes and business responsibilities creates one high energy, thought provoking, personally challenging experience that past participants say goes down as among their best conference experiences ever. It’s no wonder that past speakers become the first to return as registrants to the next event.
Event Page: http://www.sustainablebrandsinternational.com/
Speaker Lineup: http://www.sustainablebrandsinternational.com/speakers
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