How do we create the future of entrepreneurship - in an era of uncertainty, complexity and rapid change? The answer can start from within.
On May 27-28, creative entrepreneurs from Västernorrland gathered to participate in Inner Island - a transformative process that combines personal development with business design. BizMaker hosted the event, which is part of the feasibility study Into the Heat, where the goal is to develop new, humane and relevant forms of business support for cultural and creative entrepreneurs.
During two intensive days, participants explored how their personal values, visions and inner drivers can become a powerful foundation for future business. Supported by the Future Design Process - a five-step model that leads from current state and self-awareness to concrete first steps - Inner Island became a place for reflection, co-creation and direction.
The days were led by Henrik Johansson, founder of Inner Island, and sustainability entrepreneur Rebecka Carlsson. Their shared experience in innovation, transformation and climate leadership provided a strong framework for the work.
- We know that it's easy to get lost in the pace of everyday life. That's why we need to create space for long-term thinking, values and creative direction. When entrepreneurs are able to connect their inner compass to their business, both sustainability and innovation increase," says Henrik Johansson.
It was two days of meaningful conversations, workshops and visionary work - where both heart and brain were given space. Participants worked individually and in groups to clarify what really matters, what they want to contribute - and what their next steps could look like.
- "These are days that will make a big difference to me, both on a personal level and as an entrepreneur - because they go hand in hand. It's incredible what magic happened in just these two days, and my God what creative power there is," says Ingela Lundwall, interior designer.
Why is this important?
Because tomorrow's entrepreneurship is not only about scalability and growth - but also about meaning, responsibility and creating deep value. Creative entrepreneurs have a unique role to play in shaping the sustainable and attractive societies of the future. But to do so fully, they need support that sees the whole person, not just the business.With In the Heat, we want to understand the real needs of creative and cultural entrepreneurs - and together develop business practices and tools that empower them to operate long-term, sustainably and with greater impact.
