In line with the fast-moving trend for social entrepreneurship, Emma Brown runs Business Chicks, a burgeoning national networking organisation with a philanthropic twist. When Sydney-based Brown bought the business over 18 months ago from the charity, Kids Help Line, part of the deal was that the phone service for kids in need would continue to benefit. “It’s an unusual model,” explains Brown, a serial entrepreneur, who says the fact that Business Chicks delivered two-way benefits held major appeal for her.
Designed for all types of businesswomen, Business Chicks runs events ranging from speed networking to educational seminars and inspirational breakfasts. The group keeps in touch with 20,000-plus women across Australia and its events are so popular, the attendance lists sometimes exceed 900. Under the leadership of ‘Chief Chick’ Brown, the camaraderie of the group now extends beyond its events, with ‘chicks’ often providing instant interstate contacts for one another. Some have even formed sporting teams.
“I see opportunities everywhere for connecting people, teaching people, making people happy and helping charity,” says Brown, who sold the multi-million-dollar recruitment company she’d spent seven years growing to enjoy the rewards of building this more altruistic kind of business. To date, Kids Help Line has received some $200,000 thanks to Business Chicks.
For more information on Business Chicks and its events, visit www.businesschicks.com.au.
