For the first time in decades, the world has retreated in its progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals. Worse still: if we do not act, the Covid-19 pandemic could push us into a lost decade of global development.

There are several routes to getting back on track. Entrepreneurship, philanthropy, corporate programs and not-for-profit initiatives, to name a few. We know that meeting the global goals has always required innovative thinking. But today, more than ever, it also requires new alliances and radical collaboration.

The history of human progress is intertwined with the work of entrepreneurs – risk- takers who push the boundaries of the conventional. But in order to thrive, entrepreneurs need an enabling environment, a supportive ecosystem and an empowering culture.

Given the right context, entrepreneurs can trigger a powerful ripple of change. A single initiative can trigger another, and another still - to eventually create a chain reaction that has far-reaching effects.

Women impact entrepreneurs are significant drivers of this ripple effect. They spearhead businesses that achieve positive impact and are financially viable. And they effect change far beyond their immediate circles. For a start, their work directly benefits their families, employees, mentees and clients. And, slowly but surely, these communities in turn are empowered to become a force for good.

For the past 15 years, the Cartier Women’s Initiative has supported and uplifted women impact entrepreneurs to propel the ripple effect. Like-minded individuals and organizations have joined us. And positive change is percolating from impact-driven businesses, to communities, to society, and finally, to the world at large.

The strides that women impact entrepreneurs have made are already considerable. But with more people by their side, they can reach new heights. That is why the Cartier Women’s Initiative explores how to create and sustain the ripple effect ignited by women impact entrepreneurs. With our collective support, their actions can build up to a tide of change, making the world a better place for generations to come.

Speakers

Raya Papp, Founding Partner, SAGANA

Suzanne Biegel, Founder of Catalyst at Large and Co-Founder of the GenderSmart Investing Summit

Laura Huang, Professor of Business Administration, Harvard Business School

Stefanie Thomas, Head of Investments at the Impact America Fund, Cartier Women’s Initiative Jury Member