How Purpose, Community & Social Value Are Redefining Success for Women in Business
At The Foundry, we believe that business is more than profit, it’s about clarity, courage, and contribution. These values shape our community of female founders, leaders, and creatives across the Cotswolds and beyond.
That’s why we’re proud to announce our partnership for 2025/26 with Smart Works Birmingham, a charity that supports women into work by giving them the clothing, coaching and confidence they need to secure employment and change the trajectory of their lives.
This collaboration is a statement about the kind of business ecosystem we want to build: one where women lift women, where success is shared, and where social value is part of our very fabric.
Who Are Smart Works & Why Do They Matter?
Smart Works supports women by providing high-quality interview clothing, personalised coaching, and the confidence boost needed at a pivotal moment in their careers.
Their mission is simple but transformative:
“We harness the power of clothing and coaching to unlock the confidence a woman needs to put her best foot forward at a crucial moment in her life, giving her the practical tools required to succeed at interview and transform her life.”
Every woman they help is working towards the same thing many of us once needed ourselves: a fair chance, a supportive hand, and someone who believes she can do it.
What This Partnership Says About The Foundry
We know that success looks different for every woman.
But one truth runs through everything we do:
Success is not just about ourselves but the impact we have on others
Our partnership with Smart Works reflects:
Community over competition
Purpose alongside profit
Courage mixed with generosity
Women championing other women
This is what we want The Foundry to stand for in the Cotswolds: a space where business and social value live side by side.
“But I’m a small business, does social value apply to me?”
Yes. Absolutely.
And this partnership is here to prove that.
Many women running small businesses or early-stage ventures believe social impact is something only corporates have the time or money for. But small businesses often contribute more personally, more directly, and more meaningfully, because we truly understand the power of community.
Social value doesn’t have to be huge financial donations. It can be:
- A clothing donation
- A volunteer hour
- A percentage of sales
- A shared skill
- Ethically sourced materials
Your business doesn’t need to be big to make a big difference.
How The Foundry Is Supporting Smart Works
We’re committed to making a meaningful, long-term contribution. Here’s what’s already underway:
£300 Raised by Members Through Our Charity Raffle
5% of All Membership Fees Donated to Smart Works Birmingham
A Christmas Clothing Collection
Volunteering Opportunities: Coaching, Interview Prep & Marketing
Bigger, Bolder Charity Events Coming in 2026
And we’re just getting started.
We’d love your ideas on how our community can support Smart Works with creative fundraising or impactful events.
We have events scheduled throughout 2026 looking at how small businesses can have a big impact, incorporating social value into their design from the beginning. If you want to know more, check out our ‘events’ page.