Ed Whitelaw is a seasoned leader in place-based change and regeneration, specializing in community asset development, local economic development, and environmental transformation. As a recent Churchill Fellow, he has developed a strong practice in innovative approaches community power and engagement. Ed has played a leadership role in multiple award-winning projects and a range of substantial capital redevelopment and funded revenue programmes.Currently serving as Director for Nature and Neighbourhoods at Real Ideas Organisation, a social enterprise established in 2007, Ed is dedicated to problem-solving and opportunity creation across the creative, environmental, and social enterprise sectors. Real Ideas supports individuals, organisations, communities and partnerships in launching and growing impactful initiatives while operating community-focused enterprises such as the Devonport Guildhall social enterprise hub, Ocean Studios, Market Hall immersive tech centre and Liskeard Library.Ed has directed strategic programmes including Plymouth’s Power To Change Empowering Places initiative, international training with the British Council, and the Enrich and Green Mind/Communities programmes, which empower community enterprises to enhance urban green spaces. As a founding director of Plymouth Social Enterprise Network, he played a pivotal role in making Plymouth the first SEUK Social Enterprise City in 2013, contributing to the growth of over 200 social enterprises in the city. Ed is also a director of FabCity Plymouth and the rural development organisation B-Buckfastleigh, furthering his commitment to community growth and sustainability.His expertise also spans heritage, culture and the creative industries, financial and business planning, project development and management, business and enterprise support; education and training, fundraising and investment, governance, and impact management and evaluation.