I’m very excited to announce the launch of the Corporate Leaders Program for Success in Majority Markets. This is an idea we’ve been developing for some time at the IDB’s Opportunities for the Majority initiative. Over the last several years we’ve worked with a range of companies on projects that engage with the base of the pyramid in Latin America and the Caribbean. With the support of IDB loans and guarantees, these projects are getting off to tremendous starts—from CEMEX’s “Mejora tu Calle” urban infrastructure improvement, to EPM’s microloan programs for its utility customers and Mibanco’s support for female entrepreneurs.
With the Corporate Leaders Program, we hope to jump-start another group of projects in the coming months. Between now and August 16, we’re welcoming ideas about BOP business models for Latin America and the Caribbean. Through a competitive selection process, we’ll choose the most promising proposals and help those companies develop fully realized business plans.
Before the application deadline, we’re holding a BOP Modeling Workshop in Miami on Monday, July 19, open to any company interested in learning more about developing a BOP business plan. Whether you have a good idea in mind already or are not sure where to begin, this workshop will help you understand what it will take to bring your concept to execution.
We’ve found a great partner to work with, Dalberg Global Development Advisors. Dalberg’s staff has experience working with some of the world’s leading management consulting firms and a dedication to advising on projects that bring economic development and empowerment to the base of the pyramid. The companies chosen to be part of the Corporate Leaders Program will be offered intensive, individualized consulting support from Dalberg at deeply discounted rates.
There is much more information about the Corporate Leaders Program on our website, majoritymarkets.org/corporateleaders. Please take a look—and please help us spread the word to any colleagues or friends you know who may want to take advantage of this opportunity.
I look forward to hearing about your best ideas for helping your company engage with the BOP. Good luck!
