WiserEarth UK
The Wiser UK group aims to bring together WiserEarth members based in the UK. We aim (among other things) to further the vision of WiserEarth and Paul Hawken in helping put up a mirror to the movement, to connect and create alliances between those working towards a more just and sustainable world. We hope that this 'flocking' effect will enable us to improve ...learn more
GROUP DETAILS
Created: Mar 20, 2009
Updated: Nov 24, 2009
Membership: Open
Semi-Private
Topic: Suggestions for finding mentors and allies?
Posts (1 - 3 of 3)
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Hi Rachel, This project sounds exciting and unique. I have seen some breathtaking traditional homes in the sub-saharan africa and I think there are a few pristine things that you can pick from there. I will look at your project again and if time allows, I will send a few suggestions your way. Kind regards, Patrick |
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Hi Rachel,
How do you envisage the buildings? I've been involved in earthship and earthship inspired construction since they started here in the UK. Given the remoteness of the Orkneys they would suit a place like yours down to the ground.
Have a look at our last project in Brittany http://www.groundhouse.co.uk for ideas. Let me know what you think.
All the best
Duncan |
Hi everyone. I'm Rachel, with the Touchwood Project up on Orkney. We're a new social enterprise run mainly by myself and my husband Malcolm, and our goal is to run holidays that make green living fun. You can get a better idea at our website: www.touchwoodproject.com. Part of our idea is to create a luxury Stone Age Hotel (think Ice Hotel, if you know it) influenced by Skara Brae and our Neolithic sites here.
The problem that I'm hoping you all can help me with is that I'm feeling isolated and unsure how to proceed. For all the advantages to clean air and a slower pace of life, there's a certain lack of innovative, risk-taking spirit, and it's wearing me down.
Both Malcolm and myself are vision people -- we're excellent at coming up with new ideas. We're not too bad at doing practical things like business plans and financial projections, but there's still a lot of other things we need help with.
We've put so much energy this past year into developing everything from the legal structure to winning grants, and have encountered so much skepticism from people.
Now I know skepticism is healthy and can help you refine your business, but I also think you need people to support you too, who can provide sound advice and who truly believe in you.
So I'm hoping to find a mentor and some allies with enthusiasm for our idea and passion for innovation who can help us take the next steps.
We got an initial grant from UnLtd, so they'll be my first call Monday. Likewise FirstPort. I've also applied to School for Social Entrepreneurs and am eagerly waiting to see how that goes. Otherwise, I'm stuck.
Any suggestions?