The New Pioneers

This week, we're attending the New Pioneers National Conference, a two day event in Leeds which sees co-operative consultants across the country meet and network with their peers.

The conference will not only provide consultants, many of whom have worked with us in the past, with the opportunity to meet each other in the flesh but will also offer an insight into the future of The Hub and how we see the initiative growing through this year and beyond. Across the 11th-12th May, we'll be sharing ideas, new initiatives and knowledge.

During the event, there will be two afternoon workshops, hosted by the likes of James Alcock from The Plunkett Foundation, Ian Rothwell from The Co-operative Loan Fund and Tom Hall from Supporters Direct. There will also be an opportunity to hear about some new initiatives from The Co-operative Enterprise Hub; Adrian Ashton, Chris Shearlock, Brian Titley and Jim Pettipher will be talking about some exciting programmes and support for fledgling and establish co-operatives across the country.

It's been an exciting 2011 for the Enterprise Hub; we're playing an important role in The Co-operative's Ethical Operating Plan, have enjoyed a record month for applications and have had the opportunity to mingle with a number of amazing and inspiring co-operatives in both London and Edinburgh. We're looking forward to seeing what else 2011 has in store!

Keep an eye on our Twitter stream for more information.