Experimentation, the mother of invention
This is an experiment, no doubt about it.
We are trying something that isn’t exactly new, but it has a different spin on it. It’s the idea of social business.
We are starting a SCUBA diving club on the Sunshine Coast that re-invests every bit of money it earns back into the company rather than to investors or owners.
I know, it’s the same as an association, right? But these groups usually have little interest in diversifying outside of the club, this is where the difference lies. They compete for research grants, and other government subsidies, but the idea for us is to completely self fund through business activity .
Things like offering courses beyond the normal PADI / SSI dive course range, like our custom underwater photography courses and the production and sales of 3D dive maps for major sites around Australia.
As the club grows in size more infrastructure is created and the opportunity to members increases. Things like, excellent standard equipment to use and hire, more courses, better professional growth potential and upgraded web facilities to make life more convenient for every member.
Of course how it all pans out is anyone’s guess, but if we are committed and look to the long term, i’m positive we can achieve something great for all members.
Any questions, queries or death threats? leave them below 
Chris.
Dive Club, Diving Sunshine Coast, Non-profit, Social Business, Sunshine Coast