Meet Cambridge, the city’s official conference and events bureau, is strengthening its social impact through the With Purpose Network.
This in-person and online platform connects local businesses with charities to encourage responsible business practices, meaningful collaboration and community benefit.
Founded by Rachel Hales, the With Purpose Network aims to build bridges between Cambridge’s thriving corporate sector and the registered charities, social enterprises and public sector partners working to support the city.
“We’re excited to partner with Meet Cambridge to enable event organisers and venues to make a meaningful contribution to the city,” Rachel said.
As a network business member, Meet Cambridge’s longer-term vision is to encourage and give event organisers the means to make a positive difference and ensure business visitors leave a lasting impact on the local community.”
This is particularly relevant in a city regarded as one of the most unequal in the UK.
The move builds on its existing Meet Up and Make a Difference initiative, providing more opportunities for venues and organisers to integrate social value into their events.
In the short term, Meet Cambridge can connect local charities with its venue portfolio to strengthen community links even further.
Head of Meet Cambridge, Andrew Bell, said: “Our membership with the With Purpose Network allows us to give event organisers and member venues options and access to local charities and organisations, along with guidance on how best to support them based on their needs.
“It’s about ensuring that every opportunity in Cambridge can leave a meaningful and tangible benefit for the city.”
For example, Meet Cambridge and Ibis Cambridge Central Station first connected through the With Purpose Network.
Ibis has since joined the Meet Cambridge portfolio offering a high-capacity, budget-friendly hotel designed to meet the needs of corporate visitors, with 231 bedrooms and a dedicated meeting room, conveniently located beside the city’s main rail hub.
Rachel said: “It’s great to see two of our business members – Meet Cambridge and Ibis – not only committing to social impact but also finding ways to collaborate with each other.”
