Image: Trade Mutt

About the program

The Elevate Program is a 10-month tailored initiative designed to empower small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to integrate sustainable business practices into their operations. This program will equip SMEs to enhance their competitive advantage, deliver and report on measurable social and economic impact through social procurement.

Sustainable business practices are crucial in making a positive impact on communities and the planet. There is increasing pressure and stakeholder expectation for organisations to not only deliver on their environmental goals, but to also drive social performance the “Social” in ESG.

Program outline

The program includes five core components over 10 months to guide and support SMEs in implementing sustainable business practices:

• Diagnostic: Assess your current social procurement and diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) maturity levels to identify areas for improvement.
• Training program: Participate in three tailored training sessions to build practical skills in social procurement and Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG).
• Networking: Attend a showcase event connecting SMEs, social enterprises, and Tier 1 suppliers to foster collaboration.
• Reporting: Receive baseline and end-of-program impact reports to track progress and inform future strategies.
• Value: Gain access to tools, advice, resources and professional networks to drive meaningful social value and impact.

Program details

• Eligibility: Open to SMEs with less than $100 million turnover or less than 50 employees.
• Price: $300/month + GST per organisation. Social Traders members could sponsor four SMEs for $10,000.
• Places available: Two participants from each SME per program.
• Duration: Commitment to a 10-month tailored program to build social value and impact through procurement.

Keen to get started?

Expression of interest is now open for a program in May 2025. Applications will close Friday, 11 April 2025.

If you would like to apply or want more information, please contact Rewa Mackie, Innovation Project Lead: Rewa.Mackie@socialtraders.com.au