Apr 26 Gathering: Jonathan Nolan, Business for Movements

Our speaker was Jonathan Nolan, from All Nations Business for Movements. He helps church planters become self-sustainable, using business to reach neglected communities. 

Jerry started with three updates (more on the recording).

The TEN conference: he was very happy with the event and feedback, see here for the conference recording, summary and presentations. 

The Faith in Business retreat is next week, he will be there and I understand there are still spaces including bursary spaces, see here. 

TEN Strategy Review
The TEN trustees met to review our first 5 years, hone our purpose and goals. More will be published, but key is that we are a community of Christian business people wanting to use their skills and resources and networks to find enterprise-based solutions to poverty. We want to support members whatever path they are called to take, whether that is setting up a business; or being a mentor / advisor; or training others; or developing BAM. We support members by providing training material, connections, a support group, expo trips and retreats; as well as the Gatherings and conferences currently available to all.

All Nations Business for Movements

Jonathan Nolan introduced the All Nations Business for Movements (B4M) model, an innovative approach designed to equip local leaders in unreached communities to become self-sustaining and effective in ministry. Addressing the imbalance in global mission funding—where most resources go to already-reached areas—the model aims to reduce dependency on foreign donors and empower local workers through practical training and entrepreneurship.

B4M combines two key elements: church planting and business planting. Participants are trained in disciple-making and multiplying simple churches, while also learning how to launch “kingdom businesses” that generate income and open natural opportunities for outreach. The vision is simple: move from handouts to long-term sustainability by “giving a fishing rod, not a fish.”

A central part of this strategy is the Pioneer Business Planting (PBP) programme, a five-day course designed for oral learners using picture-based materials. It begins by reshaping attitudes toward work as worship and highlighting Jesus’ ministry in everyday marketplaces. The course then moves into practical business skills such as budgeting, market research, and business planning. Ongoing coaching and locally sourced funding options, including savings groups and revolving loans, help participants put learning into action.

To expand access, a new free PBP app has launched with animated training videos, assignments, bookkeeping tools, Bible resources, and coaching support. Available on web, Android, and iPhone in seven languages, it offers a scalable pathway for sustainable mission and community transformation.

Do watch the recording, which includes the introduction, presentation and questions at the end.

Watch the recording here