The Devon Convergence - Forum for New Local Economies
With austerity kicking in, we're facing a critical crossroads, but also a massive opportunity to lead progressive change right here in Devon. There are exciting community-led economic solutions emerging across the region, as well as effective strategies, innovative projects, and energetic collaborators. This event may be the beginning of something BIG. Join other changemakers in this region to meet, become acquainted, perhaps start collaborative relationships, and definitely learn about what's happening around the wider Devon area to create thriving local economies. See the film, Transition in Action, to see some examples of projects already starting to make a difference.
The day's programme:
** Important items to note: First, this is running on a 'gift culture' basis to be as inclusive as possible. If you can, please bring a little something to chip into the bucket to help defray costs. Second, please bring your lunch and any snacks you might like to knosh throughout the day. Something to share is cool, too. Third, we're going to provide tea and coffee, but this is zero waste event, so please bring your own cup for tea or coffee.
9:30 - Tea, coffee, name badges, put your name on the map, say 'hi' to a stranger
10:00 - Welcome remarks
10:15 - Tony Greenham, new economics foundation "A new economy in Devon: what's it for, what can it become?"
10:45 - Getting to know one another activity
11:25 - Julie Richardson, Schumacher College, will lead introduce group discussions on practical economic transitions in key sectors
12:40 - Introducing afternoon 'Creative Conversations'
1:00 - lunch - network and discuss morning's big takeaways. If you forgot to bring your lunch, don't worry, there are options in neighbourhood!
2:00 - Creative Conversations - in this 'open space' style activity, we'll self organise around topics we'll decide. Among the topics we know will be offered include:
Local Entrepreneur Forum - hosted by Jay Tompt, Totnes REconomy Project
Local Currencies - hosted by Mark Burton, Bristol Pound and the Local Currencies Guild
Regional Financial Strategies - hosted by Tony Greenham, nef
Bioregional Design - hosted by Isabel Carlisle, 1 Year in Transition
Additional topics - we'll decide together on the day - food coops, community energy, housing, local democracy?
3:45 - Synthesis and Next steps activities
4:45 - Closing
The organizers are from Transition Towns and REconomy, Schumacher College, Social Enterprise Networks, Sustainability Groups and NGOs across the region.
Venue:
Exeter Community Centre
17 Saint Davids Hill
EX4 3RG Exeter
Saturday, February 7, 2015 from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM (GMT)
Transition Town Totnes 