Revolutionising Social Enterprise to Support Diabetes Research

This partnership operates as a social enterprise venture that uses commercial strategies to achieve social goals. Profits from selling donated items help fund advancements in diabetes research.

Diabetes affects millions of people and families globally. Diabetes is Australia’s fasted growing chronic condition with an estimated 1.5 million Australians living with diabetes. The need for ongoing research is paramount to develop better treatment options, improve management strategies, and ultimately find a cure. However, securing consistent funding for this research is often a challenge, with research funding for diabetes decreasing by 35% in the past 10 years, while there has been a 32% increase in people living with diabetes. Insufficient investment is limiting much-needed advancements in diabetes research. 

This is where the innovative social enterprise comes into play.

The concept is simple yet impactful. Instead of letting unused clothes and household items sit in storage or go to landfill, people can donate them to their local Savers store to support a good cause. For every bag of clothing and items donated, DIIF receives funds that go directly toward diabetes research. By keeping items out of landfill, this social enterprise also helps to reduce waste and conserve natural resources, making a meaningful contribution to environmental sustainability.

Partnership is crucial to this initiative's success. As a well-known and reputable thrift store, Savers provides a platform for the donated clothing and household items to be sold and repurposed by new owners.

Glen Noonan, Chief Executive Officer at DIIF, said the new partnership with Savers will help drive meaningful change in diabetes care and prevention.

"Innovation and collaboration are key to tackling the growing challenges of diabetes, and this partnership not only helps us raise essential funds to advance research and prevention but also creates a sustainable model for long-term impact."

DIIF plays an active role by collecting and delivering donated stock to Savers stores and encouraging the community to give pre-loved items a second life.

This collaboration not only supports diabetes research but also promotes environmental sustainability by reducing waste and supporting a circular economy. Donating or purchasing pre-loved items is a meaningful way for all people to contribute to diabetes advancements and care for the planet.