Macquarie Group hosts a dynamic session on building stronger business–community partnerships.
Today, we were delighted to host our in-person meeting of the Place Based Giving (PBG) Chairs Network. We were generously welcomed by Macquarie Group, where Chairs from across the capital came together to explore the future of Place Based Giving and the vital role that businesses can play in strengthening their local communities.
The session opened with a conversation about our renewed vision for the Place Based Giving movement, rooted in the belief that locally led change builds belonging, unlocks potential, and creates lasting impact for every community. Across 30 places from London, Bedford, and Manchester, there are now Place Based Giving schemes connecting residents, businesses, grassroots groups, and anchor institutions to transform neighbourhoods into places that people are proud to call home.
Macquarie Group spoke about their long-term partnership with Islington Giving and reflected on how the relationship has evolved, what they have learned, and why business–community collaboration is essential for meaningful place-based work.
A discussion followed, featuring Kristina Glenn MBE an advisor and consultant for London's Giving, Rachel Engel from Macquarie Group, Anneke Short from The Camden Watch Company, and Julie Hutchinson from the East London Business Alliance. Each speaker offered a different perspective on their route into Place Based Giving, from the experience of a global financial services organisation to a small, independent local business, to a charity dedicated to connecting companies with the communities around them. They spoke about the importance of aligning interests to create equitable partnerships, grounding decisions in evidenced, local need, and keeping impact at the heart of every collaboration.
A clear message emerged: businesses want to give locally, but many do not know where to start. Place Based Giving schemes provide that bridge, helping businesses understand what matters locally and giving them a trusted way to invest in the ideas, projects, and people who can make the biggest difference.
We closed the session by sharing reflections, practical advice and steps that Chairs can take to initiate, nurture, and sustain strong business partnerships in their own areas. The energy in the room showed a real appetite to build on this work and continue growing the movement together.
There is a role for everyone. If you want to be part of driving locally led change in your borough, whether you are a business, a resident, or a partner organisation, you can connect with a Place Based Giving scheme on your doorstep.
To find out more, please contact Saboohi Bukhari