In times when companies face growing regulatory demands and stakeholder expectations, merely meeting the minimum ESG requirements is no longer enough. What’s needed are environments that facilitate the exchange of experience, cross-sector collaboration, and access to reliable, up-to-date knowledge. One such initiative is the ESG Institute Collaboration Hub—a community designed specifically for sustainability professionals.

We spoke with Michał Prorok, one of its founders and Program & Project Manager at ESG Institute, to learn how the initiative came to be, what opportunities it offers, and the direction in which it is heading.

Where did the idea for the ESG Institute Collaboration Hub come from, and what gap does it fill in the market?

MP: The ESG Institute Collaboration Hub has actually been around for a year, though in a different form. Until now, the initiative focused on organizing events and promoting organizations that support sustainable development. At our events, we noticed that participants valued the opportunity to talk not only with experts but also with each other. There was a lack of space where ESG professionals could learn from one another, build relationships, and share proven solutions. We realized that many companies and individuals are facing the same challenges on their own, often unaware that solutions are already within reach. The Collaboration Hub is here to change that.

What sets the ESG Institute Collaboration Hub apart from other ESG and sustainability initiatives?

MP: What makes us unique is our co-creative, hands-on approach. We’re not just a source of knowledge—we are a space for collaboration on real-world challenges. We emphasize interdisciplinarity, inviting not only ESG specialists but also professionals from tech, HR, compliance, DE&I, and wellbeing. We unite diverse communities: business, NGOs, the public sector, and startups. Instead of focusing on “what” to do, we help each other answer “how” to do it well, effectively, and responsibly.

What benefits will members, experts, and organizations joining the Collaboration Hub gain?

MP: In my view, the biggest benefit is the opportunity to speak with people facing similar challenges—some of whom may already have proven solutions. The Collaboration Hub offers discussion channels, a knowledge base, and networking opportunities. Members gain access to a network of ESG experts and practitioners willing to exchange experiences and collaborate on projects; access to case studies and working groups where we tackle real problems together. The Hub also continues to host our online and offline events. It’s a space that accelerates competency development and creates real value—not just for reports, but in daily practices.

What events, activities, or new formats will be developed within the Hub in the coming months?

MP: We plan to continue formats that have already proven successful, such as the Tea Time and Coffee Call sessions, which bring together experts from various industries and sectors. In the coming months, we will also expand working groups, the knowledge base, and case studies, and in 2026, we plan to launch a mentoring program. Additionally, we aim to increase the number of in-person events to deepen relationships and create space for collaborative work on real solutions.

Who is this initiative especially aimed at? Who are you inviting to co-create the community?

MP: We invite those who have ESG in their hearts and want to develop in this field. We also welcome individuals who have been “given” additional sustainability-related responsibilities. We invite everyone who isn’t just “doing ESG,” but wants to do it better, more consciously, and more systematically. We especially look forward to ESG, CSR, DE&I, wellbeing, HR, L&D, compliance, and sustainability experts; representatives of companies implementing CSRD/ESRS regulations; tech leaders building ESG tools; and young professionals and future leaders. We also shouldn’t forget about our current and future partners! We welcome organizations that want to reach a broad audience with their ESG-related products and services.

What are the main goals for growing the Collaboration Hub this year? What will you focus on in the next stages?

MP: This year, we are focusing on three priorities: community growth, expansion of substantive resources, and collaboration with partners on projects with real impact. We want the Hub to become a point of reference for ESG practitioners—a place people return to for inspiration, connections, and support. Our ambition is also to build a strong network of ESG leaders who will drive change in their companies and communities. To that end, we are testing various formats and listening to members’ needs. We aim for the Hub to be a place people want to come back to—for knowledge and support. ESG is about collaboration, not just reporting Our conversation with Michał Prorok confirms that ESG Institute Collaboration Hub is more than a project—it’s an invitation to a community grounded in sustainability values, relationships, and tangible actions. It’s a space where you can not only gain knowledge, but also feel that you’re not alone in your efforts toward a sustainable future.

If you’re looking for a place where your skills and commitment truly matter—join the ESG Institute Collaboration Hub. Together, we can build an environment that doesn’t just respond to today’s challenges, but actually shapes tomorrow’s world.

Autor: Dariusz Postument (Junior ESG Specialist at ESG Institute)

Dołącz do naszej listy mailingowej i otrzymuj najświeższe wiadomości ESG

*Subskrybując wyrażasz zgodę na przetwarzanie Twoich danych w celach marketingowych.

ESG Institute Sp. z o. o.

info@esginstitute.eu

Rondo ONZ 1,
00-124 Warszawa

Social media