In this episode of the Norfolk Business Show, I’m joined by Chris Elliott, an experienced charity and social enterprise marketer and fundraiser who has built a remarkable career bridging the worlds of corporate business and purpose-driven organisations.

Chris is currently Fundraising Manager at Hopestead, part of the Bromford Flagship Group, where he focuses on raising vital funds to support people facing homelessness—many of whom are escaping domestic abuse or trauma. His motivation is clear: to make a tangible difference in the lives of those who have little to call their own.

Before this, Chris played a pivotal role at The Feed, a small but ambitious Norwich-based charity tackling issues such as malnutrition and food poverty. He helped grow the organisation significantly, generating income through events and corporate partnerships while raising awareness of its innovative Social Supermarket project, which provides thousands of local people with access to fresh, affordable groceries.

Earlier in his career, Chris was instrumental at The Benjamin Foundation, where he developed its Marketing and Fundraising strategy, grew media and supporter engagement, and launched the now well-known annual Sleep Out fundraising event—raising over £100,000 in 2019 alone. He also forged successful partnerships with local events, including the Norfolk Superhero Challenge, delivering value back to sponsors and supporters alike.

Before moving into the charity sector, Chris spent over two decades at Aviva (formerly Norwich Union), where he made his mark in marketing, sponsorship, and business development. From winning a Sport Industry Award for Aviva’s sponsorship of Norwich City, to pioneering telematics-based motor insurance, to managing multi-million-pound corporate partnerships, Chris honed the commercial and communications expertise that now underpins his charity work.

In our conversation, Chris shares:

His journey from corporate marketing to purpose-driven fundraising.

Insights into growing income and awareness for charities through creative partnerships and events.

The challenges facing local communities around homelessness and food insecurity.

Why authentic communications and relationships are at the heart of successful fundraising.

Whether you’re in business, charity, or simply passionate about making a difference, this episode is packed with lessons on impact, community, and the power of bringing people together for good.