Annie Smits

Co-CEO, Neighbourhood Economics

Annie Smits is Co-Founder of Neighbourhood Economics, alongside Bill, where they work to reimagine local economies so they genuinely shift wealth, power and opportunity.

After more than 15 years leading place-based economic development and social enterprise, Annie grew frustrated with how little traditional approaches changed underlying economic conditions. Together, Annie and Bill founded Neighbourhood Economics, drawing on Community Wealth Building and global wellbeing economy movements to help communities, businesses and institutions rewire how local economies function.

Annie previously led The Difference Incubator (TDi), supporting social enterprises and Indigenous entrepreneurs across Australia and the Pacific to strengthen supply chains and unlock market access. Her career spans corporate, not-for-profit leadership and impact investment.

She moves comfortably between kitchen tabels and boardrooms, focused on building economic models that actually work for people and place.