In recent years, a new generation of consumers has begun demanding companies to act in the interest of sustainability. Purpose-driven businesses are also recognizing the benefits of focusing on the long-term. These leaders have committed to creating value for all stakeholders and taking concrete actions to align their business models with sustainable development principles. But we still need to do much more to mobilize private finance and align business practices with the Sustainable Development Goals.
As the world recovers from the COVID-19 pandemic, the private sector, and particularly these purpose-driven businesses, will be indispensable in accelerating SDGs action. UN DESA is working to actively engage the private sector in aligning business activities with sustainable development. Two upcoming events will focus on these goals:
- 2021 SDG Business Forum (22 September 2021): As the largest and most globally representative annual UN convening of business leaders around sustainable development, the sixth SDG Business Forum will be held virtually on 22 September 2021, offering a platform for meaningful dialogue with purpose-driven business leaders to co-create lasting solutions for a more sustainable, inclusive, and resilient future. The event is co-organized by UN DESA, UN Global Compact and the International Chamber of Commerce. Register here: https://unglobalcompact.swoogo.com/unitingbusinesslive21/SDGBusinessForum
- 2021 SDG Investment Fair (28-29 September 2021): The September edition of the SDG Investment Fair will connect private investors with projects that support SDG implementation in developing countries. Select countries will present investment-ready projects to a pool of participating investors. These include members of the Global Investors for Sustainable Development Alliance, other institutional investors, infrastructure investors, international financial institutions, and development banks. Register here: https://bit.ly/Sept2021FairRegistration
