Greedy, selfish, profit-driven… these are some of the words often associated with business. Business can get a bad rap, but when we approach the sphere of business with an open mind, we will realize that it is transforming the world. Business is creating opportunities for those in poverty, it is empowering women, it is cultivating sustainable development, it is generating economic growth, and it is changing communities around the Globe.
Here’s how business can change the world:
1. Influence
Businesses, especially large corporations, can use their influence to demand social change. For example, as of 2011, 100% of Caribou Coffee’s coffee was Rainforest Alliance Certified. This certification ensures that Caribou’s coffee is grown and harvested in a socially and environmentally responsible way. By leveraging their influence, Caribou Coffee has bettered the lives of farmers and harvesters around the world. This is just one of many examples of corporations using their position of power to improve labor conditions, environmental stewardship, and more
2. Empowerment
When women have the opportunity to be involved in business, they experience the pride and empowerment that comes from owning a successful enterprise. When women begin to earn an income, their status increases, they are free to voice opinions, they often suffer less abuse at home, and have more influence over how the family income is spent. This last piece is especially important, because when women control a family’s income, more money is invested in the family’s children and their futures.
3. Community Development
There are hundreds of non-profits focused on helping entrepreneurs start, grow, and sustain their businesses in the developing world. Many, such as HOPE International, provide access to small loans and business training. Non-profits are dedicated to business development because they see how businesses bring employment, economic growth, and resiliency to communities. Opposed to giving handouts, investing in local businesses to provide for the community has proved to be a sustainable and empowering way to promote development.
4. Fair Trade
Have you been wondering what that fair trade logo on your tea means? The fair trade label ensures that the producers who made the product are being paid a fair wage for their work. Fair trade products can be anything from baking ingredients and chocolate to clothing, jewelry, and more! Fair trade brands help employees develop vocational skills, while providing them with a stable job and income. Many large grocers and retailers now carry at least some fair trade products, making buying fair trade one of the easiest ways to help others.
5. Opportunity Through Employment
In Cambodia, I visited restaurants, cafés, salons, and boutiques that use their business to help the community. The most amazing place I visited was a bakery that employs girls rescued out of sex trafficking. The girls receive mentoring and vocational training, develop skills, learn to work and provide for themselves, and build confidence along the way as they rebuild their lives. Another restaurant I visited employs and trains homeless youth, safeguarding them against economic vulnerability and helping them on a path to a better life. These businesses are incredible examples of how enterprise can be used to transform lives.
Written by Ellie Hutchison
This blog post is from the Author's perspective and doesn't speak for brightpeak financial. Contact brightpeak if you want to know more about brightpeak products, and keep in mind that they are not available in all states and there are some limitations (some exclusions and restrictions may apply).
