Foundation empower new project

July 17, 2025 BY

Give Where You Live Foundation head of operations and social impact Meg Price with Bill Mithen and Annie Smits from Neighbourhood Economics and Give Where You Live Foundation CEO Zac Lewis. Photo: SUPPLIED

NEW business initiative Neighbourhood Economics is one of the 23 local organisations to benefit from the latest round of Give Where You Live Foundation grants.

More than $495,000 has been distributed to lucky groups across Greater Geelong in an effort to create a fairer community.

Launching in Geelong, Neighbourhood Economics has been created for the economic wellbeing of Australia’s most disadvantaged suburbs.

“We believe all people in our community should have the opportunity to build wealth and share prosperity,” co-chief executive Bill Mithen said.

The initiative is dedicated to reimagining local economies to be more inclusive, resilient and equitable.

“We want to reimagine local neighbourhood economies where prosperity has not been equally shared. A fair economy isn’t impossible, its overdue,” fellow CEO Annie Smits added.

Give Where You Live Foundation CEO Zac Lewis said the organisation is working on building and supporting systems to address urgent need in the community.

“We know that our current economic systems are not serving all people or all places well.

“In the Geelong region, there are some neighbourhoods where people are facing higher rates of unemployment, and struggling with food and housing.

“The foundation is delighted to support the delivery of Neighbourhood Economics and its focus on new, inclusive economic opportunities, community prosperity and strong community connections.”