A local learning lab bringing regenerative ideas to life
Every great idea starts somewhere. Do you have an impactful idea, project or business that could regenerate your community? Are you looking to connect with enterprising, like-minded people?
WWF-Australia has partnered with Regen Studios, The Australian Centre for Social Innovation, Ecocreative and Mount Barker District Council to help regenerate communities by supporting local early-stage ideas, projects and enterprises that benefit people, nature and the economy. We are doing this with a Local Learning Lab.
Introducing the Adelaide Hills and Fleurieu Local Learning Lab
A Local Learning Lab for regeneration will soon be held on Peramangk Country in Mount Barker.
We don’t need to choose between a healthy environment and a thriving economy. Through the labs, we hope to develop regional and national networks of communities, businesses and experts working together to Regenerate Australia.
The Adelaide Hills, Fleurieu and Kangaroo Island Local Learning Lab will bring together individuals, small-to-medium-sized enterprises, local partners and industry experts to provide support for ideas, projects and businesses that have the potential to bring social, environmental and economic benefits to the region.
This lab is a fun, interactive 2-day workshop designed to support the development of regional regeneration and entrepreneurship. Participants will also enjoy local food, drink and natural spaces, of course!
Who and what we are looking for
We are looking for up to 25 people with regenerative ideas, projects, collaborations or enterprises that relate to biodiversity, agriculture, tourism, energy, waste, education, democracy, transport, water, art, Indigenous-led enterprise, wellbeing – almost anything! The most important thing is that what you propose is regenerative, meaning that what you are adding to natural environmental and social systems, not extracting from or exploiting people or places.
We want to grow local economies through entrepreneurship that is connected to people and nature and embedded in the community. We’re especially interested in ideas and projects that are still at a local scale and have the potential and the desire to grow. Regeneration brings vitality and renewed growth to the community and to our ecosystems – putting life, reciprocity and connection at the centre of every decision we make.
To ensure a healthy future for people and nature, we need to consider the diversity in our community. We are especially interested in Indigenous-led enterprises, ideas driven by young regenerators (18–30 years old), and ideas that amplify Indigenous Ecological Knowledge.
It is also essential that you live and/or work or volunteer in the Adelaide Hills, Fleurieu and Kangaroo Island region, or that this region is your Country (i.e. Peramangk, Ngarrindjeri or Kaurna).
All the details
The Lab will be held at Laratinga Pavilion (pictured) at 100 Springs Road, Mount Barker on Saturday 5 and Sunday 6 November 2022. We need people who can commit to two full days on this weekend (support for childcare and transport is available).
Registration closes on Monday 24 October (apply via the expression of interest form). Participation is confirmed on Wednesday 26 October.
Local ‘regenerators’ will work with a team of expert innovators in the commercial, social and government sectors. Together, we’ll clarify and refine your idea through the lens of regeneration, explore business models and develop next steps.
Funding is also available
WWF-Australia is committing up to $12,000 in funding for graduates to share to help maintain the momentum and connections developed during the Local Learning Lab. We’re also seeking additional regional funding and support. More information about this funding and how it can support your community will be shared at The Lab.
Find out more
Download the Local Learning Lab brochure.
Or head straight to the expression of interest form.
If you would like to join us for a free public event on the Friday night (4 November) before the Local Learning Lab, then book a ticket to Imagining local regeneration together with WWF-Australia and partners.
Contact Matthew Wright-Simon who is working with Mount Barker District Council and other partners to host and co-facilitate the Lab. We’d love to hear from other partners from the government, corporate and community sectors who want to support regional regeneration – and maybe be involved in delivering the Lab.
