Key Points
- GIZ, AGI, and GEA launched Ghana’s first IB/IGB Forum.
- Forum aims to address socio-economic and environmental challenges.
- Study highlights firms supporting sustainable livelihoods for 1.8 million Ghanaians.
Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ), in partnership with the Association of Ghana Industries (AGI) and the Ghana Enterprises Agency (GEA), has launched Ghana’s first-ever Inclusive Business and Inclusive Green Business (IB/IGB) Forum in Accra.
This groundbreaking initiative is designed to foster a sustainable business ecosystem that addresses the country’s critical socio-economic and environmental challenges.
Empowering Ghana’s economic future
Supported by German Cooperation through GIZ’s Private and Financial Sector Support Programme, the forum represents a pivotal step toward promoting business models that not only contribute to Ghana’s economic growth but also tackle urgent social and environmental issues.
In preparation for the event, a comprehensive study evaluated over 300 firms to identify 15 that exemplify inclusive and green business practices. Collectively, these companies are improving the lives of over 1.8 million low-income Ghanaians, advancing sustainable livelihoods, and positioning Ghana closer to achieving its sustainable development goals.
The study promotes scalable, commercially viable strategies to improve incomes and living conditions in Ghana’s low-income communities, while addressing environmental challenges. Insights from over 200 stakeholders, including government agencies, impact investors, and business associations, shaped the findings and recommendations presented at the forum.
Collaborative framework for a green economy
The IB/IGB Forum emerged as a dynamic platform, bringing together stakeholders to discuss the study’s findings and explore how inclusive and green business models can be implemented nationwide. The forum emphasized the need for institutional support and the development of a national strategy to strengthen Ghana’s inclusive business ecosystem and accelerate its green economy transition.
According to Joy Online, Dr. Dirk Assmann, GIZ Ghana’s Country Director, highlighted the forum’s transformative potential, stating, “This initiative goes beyond identifying innovative business models—it’s about building a lasting ecosystem that empowers communities, supports sustainable livelihoods, and protects the environment. The strong commitment from our partners and businesses to adopt these models is an encouraging sign for the future.”
Driving sustainable business models
The forum spotlighted the Impact-Driven Return Business Coaching and Mentoring (IDR-BCM) program, which has already provided strategic support to 35 companies, equipping them with the tools to scale inclusive business practices.
As part of the IB/IGB Forum’s ongoing support, the IDR-BCM program launched its first seminar, connecting businesses with consultants and facilitators who are helping to expand inclusive and green business models across the country.
Transforming Ghana’s business landscape
The forum brought together leaders from both the public and private sectors, establishing a foundation for a collaborative approach to economic development. This marks a decisive step in embedding social inclusion and environmental responsibility within Ghana’s economic fabric, signaling a commitment to a just transition towards an inclusive, green, and resilient economy.
This event is not just a one-off gathering—it is the beginning of a broader, concerted effort to reshape Ghana’s business environment, ensuring that sustainability and inclusivity are at the heart of future economic growth. As the IB/IGB initiative evolves, GIZ, AGI, and GEA will continue their work with key stakeholders to build a robust institutional framework and implement actionable strategies that drive long-term, sustainable growth for Ghana’s economy.
