ESG and social impact

Education is a keystone investment into ensuring the realization of all global goals, including climate change, diversity, equity, and inclusion, public health, and broad-based economic growth. Across the world, businesses invest hundreds of millions of dollars in education in countries across the globe. Yet too many of these resources do not have an impact on learning and skill development. A study from the Brookings Institution revealed that millions of dollars in business contributions to support global education from the Fortune 500 companies were small, short-term, uncoordinated efforts that were not reaching the most marginalized. GBC-Education has been changing this reality since its inception. 

How the business community channels its resources, and how the education sector works with the business community, will play a key role in determining not only the future of education but of the entire Sustainable Development Goals agenda. 

Integrated social impact strategies and ESG investing are critical ways that businesses can improve lives and meet societal challenges. Socially responsible action is also increasingly important for companies to improve their bottom line and attract and retain investors, talent, and customers: 86% of employees prefer to work for companies that care about the same issues they do. Consumers are also demanding action on social issues from businesses: 83% of consumers think companies should be actively shaping ESG best practices. Now, more than ever, the world is looking to the business community for action.