Looking forward: The way ahead after the launch of the Inclusive Business Action Network

The launch of the Inclusive Business Action Network, which took place from 18-20 November in Berlin, once again highlighted the fantastic variety of initiatives and approaches to support inclusive businesses and gave a glimpse of where we can get to by joining our efforts. Featuring businesses, investors, bi- and multilateral development institutions, initiatives, consultants, academia and NGOs, the almost 200 participants at the launch symbolized the diversity of the inclusive business landscape. They provided useful insights into existing financing mechanisms, technical advice services, incubation and acceleration programmes as well as recently published studies and reports. On the other hand, numerous business representatives who joined the event from all over the world provided first-hand information on the challenges they face when scaling-up and replicating their business model. Striving to find the right solution to overcome these challenges, each participant contributed by sharing their knowledge, exchanging experiences and ideas with one another and bringing to the table their respective expertise.

This event was just a first step to creating a strong community with a shared vision: to uplift the livelihoods of low-income communities through innovative, inclusive business Solutions and making high quality goods and services accessible and affordable to these communities. Every single actor committed to inclusive business can play a role in fulfilling this vision. Even more so, if we all act as a community, and transform punctual conversations and exchanges into a continuous flow of interactions, into a vibrant and dynamic community of inclusive business practitioners. By coordinating our efforts and forging transformative partnerships that will boost the impact of inclusive business solutions; By facilitating access to the great pool of knowledge and information that has and is being created around inclusive business; By closing the gaps between the various actors in the inclusive business ecosystem; By engaging with policymakers and influencing international agenda setting.

If you share this vision, let us join forces and walk the way ahead together.