Launched in 2008, the Business Call to Action (BCtA) aims to accelerate progress towards the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) by challenging companies to develop inclusive business models that offer the potential for both commercial success and development impact.
The BCtA global leadership platform is supported by the Australian Agency for International Development, the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency, the UK Department for International Development, the US Agency for International Development, the United Nations Development Programme, the United Nations Global Compact, and the International Business Leaders Forum.
Worldwide, 45 companies have responded to the BCtA by making commitments to improve the lives and livelihoods of millions through commercially-viable business ventures that engage low-income people as consumers, producers, suppliers, and distributors of goods and services. Participating companies benefit from the BCtA’s ability to provide:
- A global leadership platform and opportunities to share expertise, knowledge, and best practices for market-based approaches to development;
- Initiative development advice and assistance; and
- Linkages with companies, donors, and other key stakeholders.
BCtA member initiatives include pledges to provide access to banking services for more than 40 million people, promote improved nutrition for 8 million children, and enhance access to energy for 7.1 million low-income households.
