Social impact continues to grow rapidly, with ever increasing numbers of entrepreneurs, development partners, funders, and government support. Together, key goals surrounding poverty, education, gender equality, health, environment, and international cooperation are seeing novel solutions that combine the best practices of business, investment, and philanthropy. While the seedlings have already started turning into healthy trees, where will the space be in 2030?
Entrepreneurs are the most critical part of this ecosystem Tweet This Quote
Entrepreneurs are the most critical part of this ecosystem. Without the creative problem-solving, tireless efforts, and most importantly, brave hearts and strong minds to chase unrealized opportunities, there would be no progress over the next 15 years. Their presence will drive more contributors into the space, together addressing the opportunities to improve the world surrounding us.
Established in 2000, the United Nations Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) for 2030 remain as the key benchmarks that unite the G8 countries, World Bank, International Monetary Fund, social entrepreneurs, governments, funders, and countless others. How much progress are we making? A year-long international research project was discussed the other day at the Skoll World Forum in Oxford–below are a few takeaways:
Current Situation
- The 2030 population will approach 8.5 billion people, 16 percent more than today’s 7.3 billion people, with six billion people in Asia; India and China will total three billion.
- Climate change, together with population and other demographic growth, will require at least a 25 percent increase in food production and water supply.
Future Goals
- Increase global cooperation and personal integrity–everyone can contribute.
- Invest into enormous financial opportunities–basic products and services for huge underserved populations in emerging and developing geographies.
- Bridge inequality gaps, specifically gender, income, and education.
- Raise the value attributed to professions that serve the public good, including teachers, social workers.
While the Skoll World Forum attendees identified this set of goals, everyone needs to continue thinking about what will be needed and how it will be provided. What would you suggest, and how might we execute it? Please leave your thoughts in the comments section and if you want to reach participants directly, tweet @SkollWorldForum or #skollwf.